KR20170129813A - Method and system for producing consumable liquid food or beverage product from frozen liquid inclusions - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for producing a consumable liquid food or beverage product from a frozen inclusion are provided. The container is configured to be inserted into the device. The container including a tapered side wall, an end layer, and a cap defining a cavity; A frozen inclusion is placed in the cavity. The cavity has an empty space in which the frozen inclusion is not filled. The container is pierceable and the frozen inclusions are displaceable from a first position in contact with the end layer to a second position in the void space. When melted or diluted in liquid, the frozen inclusion provides the final food or beverage product.

Description

Method and system for producing consumable liquid food or beverage product from frozen liquid inclusions

Related application

The subject is 35 U.S.C. Entitled " Frozen Concentrate Packaging "filed on March 20, 2015 under §119 (e), and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 275,506, filed January 6, Method and system for producing a consumable liquid food or beverage product from a liquid inclusion, " Priority is claimed on U.S. Provisional Application No. 14 / 801,540, filed July 16, 2015, under § 120, entitled "Apparatus and Method for Producing Consumable Liquid Food or Beverage Products from Frozen Containment, Quot ;, incorporated herein by reference.

Technical field

The technical field of the present application generally produces frozen liquids packaged in containers designed to be received by consumable liquid food or beverage products, particularly machine-based dispensing systems, from frozen inclusions to promote melting and / or dilution of the frozen liquid contents And to a method and system for promoting the production of a food or beverage that can be consumed directly therefrom. The frozen liquid inclusions may be derived from food or beverage concentrates, extracts and / or other consumable fluids with or without nutrients.

Current or previous machine-based coffee brewing systems and coffee packaged in filtered pods allow the consumer to press a button to create freshly extracted beverages, and the measurement, handling and / or grinding of the filter powder No further processing steps are required, such as disposal. These machine-based systems typically include a container containing a dry solids or powder such as dry coffee grounds, tea leaves or cocoa powder, as well as a filtration medium to prevent unwanted solids from migrating to the user's cup or glass, Use cover or lid. The container itself often has a thin wall so that it can be pierced with a needle or other instrument so that a solvent (e.g., hot water) can be injected into the container. In practice, the container is inserted into the machine, and when the lid of the machine is closed, the container is pierced to make the inlet and outlet. The hot solvent is then delivered to the inlet, added to the vessel, and the extracted beverage is discharged through the filter to the outlet.

Such systems often have the problem of not retaining the freshness of the contents in the vessel, the extraction strength from finite size packaging and / or conveniently recycling a large number of filtered vessels with pulverized pulp / leaves produced annually.

The problem of maintaining freshness can occur, for example, when a dry solid is finely ground coffee. This problem is mainly a result of an important aroma in coffee grounds and unwanted oxidation of aroma compounds, which is a problem that can be exacerbated by the fact that ground coffee provides a very large surface area to the surrounding environment. Some manufacturers have attempted to solve this problem by using gas displacement packaging (MAP) methods (eg, introducing non-oxidizing gas instead of air), but their efforts have often been unsuccessful for a number of reasons. For example, freshly roasted whole beans or ground coffee requires a pre-packaging step to allow the grind to "degass" prior to packaging, thereby exhausting CO ₂ abundantly, The pressure does not swell or expand outwardly, so that the container takes on the appearance of the damaged product. This CO ₂ degassing also depletes a rich mixture of fresh coffee aroma from the ground coffee. In addition, the coffee beans and ground coffee are composed of about 44% oxygen composition, which can affect the flavor and aroma of the coffee internally after the roasting process.

Another drop of such a container containing dry solids or powder can often produce a wide range of beverage efficacy and fail to provide size from a given package size. A pod containing 10 g of ground coffee can produce only about 2 g of the coffee mixture actually extracted when extracted according to the SCAA extraction guidelines. As a result, when 2 g of extracted coffee compound is diluted in 10 oz cups of coffee, a total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration of about 0.75 is produced. TDS (total%) is a measure of the mixed content of inorganic and organic materials contained in a liquid in the form of a suspension of molecules, ionized or micro-granular colloidal solids. Therefore, such a cup of coffee is often considered a very weak coffee cup for many consumers. Conversely, some brewers may over-extract the same 10 g coffee grounds to produce high TDS; However, the extracted dissolved solids are often harsh to the palate and can compromise the flavor of the coffee. Often, soluble / instant coffee is added to reduce this disadvantage. In addition, most brewers designed for extraction are often wasted up to 25% of good coffee because they can not remove all the desired compounds from the grinding products by providing pressure and temperature, and often less or less coffee than desired .

Returning to the recycling problem, the presence of residual coffee grounds, tea leaves and / or other residual waste after extraction (e.g., a waste filter remaining in the vessel) typically makes the vessel unsuitable for recycling. Consumers can remove the lid from the waste container and clean the remaining material, but this wastes precious soil nutrients that can be time consuming, messy, wasted and / or recycled back into the crop ecosystem. Therefore, most consumers will not bother with recycling in return for these trivial and obvious ecosystem benefits. Recycling can also be influenced by the type of thermoplastic used in some containers. For example, in an effort to minimize the loss of freshness discussed above, some manufacturers have decided to use materials with excellent vapor barrier properties, such as laminate film materials with an inner layer of EVOH plastic. The combination of different thermoplastic materials in such laminated films, which may be some combination of EVOH, polypropylene, polyethylene, PVC and / or other materials, is not suitable for recycling.

Despite these shortcomings, there are a number of different machine-based systems currently on the market that generate beverages from single-serving capsule products. They are becoming increasingly popular with consumers because of the convenience they provide to make a cup of coffee that is satisfactory (not necessarily good) to consumers, and often the consumer exchanges cafe-quality extracted coffee for the convenience of a single serving home- It is also said.

In addition to single-serving capsule products, there are currently freeze products such as coffee extracts and juice concentrates packaged in large containers and cans (e.g., 2 liters) to produce multiple beverages from a single container. However, it is generally inconvenient and time consuming to produce beverages from such frozen extracts or concentrates. For example, some coffee products typically have to be slowly dissolved for hours or days prior to use. When all servicing is complete, the final product must be stored in the refrigerator afterwards to maintain product safety. In addition, to enjoy hot drinks such as coffee and tea, the melted extract must be heated appropriately. Many of these products are like stable, non-stable coffee with a high percentage of solids in the milled product, since such solids can decompose and decay as hydrolyzed wood. Thus, the flavor and quality of these large batch frozen products can deteriorate in hours, even at freezing temperatures. Also, the method of forming the final consumable beverage is often not automated and may be over-diluted or under-diluted and the user experience may be inconsistent.

The techniques and systems described herein include an integrated system that can dispense a wider range of food and beverage products than known currently available partial control extraction systems. In certain embodiments, the system includes a multi-functional and multi-use dispenser that cooperates with a multi-containment freezing vessel. The vessel contains the pre-made concentrate and extract in a frozen state in a closed MAP gas environment. Foods and beverages remain in the FDA food-safe form because they remain preserved. In addition, the frozen liquid inclusion is preserved with the highest level of flavor and aroma without the use of conventional preservatives or additives.

On the other hand, the dispenser can be used to produce these foods and beverages at high or low temperatures using specific containers containing frozen liquid inclusions. The integrated system including dispensers and containers can safely provide for example coffee, tea, cocoa, soda, soup, nutrients, vitamins water, medicines, energy supplements, latte, cappuccino, chiarate and the like. During dispensing of the product, the container is substantially clean by the dispensing system and is suitable for recycling due to the absence of crushed material, leaves, filter powder or crystals.

As described above, the techniques and systems described herein improve the overall quality and taste of coffee, tea, and other beverages without the need for extraction in certain respects, which is convenient for consumers at home and in certain respects. Embodiments of the packaging systems and dispensers described herein effectively and efficiently treat frozen liquid inclusions. For example, the embodiments disclosed herein provide a method of removing or passing freezing liquid contents from the interior surface of a container, a method of creating a flow path to the outlet point of the container, an unacceptable internal pressure or spray Methods of efficiently melting frozen liquid contents without producing liquids, methods of obtaining final beverages at desired temperatures and concentrations, and / or methods of best preparing containers for recycling are dealt with.

The contents of the disclosed subject matter include various implementations of a container configured to be inserted into a dispenser. Each container contains a frozen liquid with a headspace. The container includes a cavity for receiving and storing the opening and the frozen liquid content, wherein the container is perforable. The container comprising a closure formed over the opening of the container for sealing the frozen liquid content in the cavity of the container, wherein the container is configured to be dispensed from a dispensing device configured to create a consumable liquid beverage from the frozen liquid content in the container Or system so that the frozen liquid contents are extracted through the perforations created in the container by the device.

In some instances, the container comprises a gas impermeable material configured to preserve the freshness and aroma of the frozen liquid containing material. Containers and caps may be constructed of renewable materials so that containers and closures can be recycled once the consumable liquid food or drink is produced. The container may be composed of an edible material such that the container itself can be dissolved and consumed after use. The frozen liquid inclusion contained in the container may be , for example, frozen coffee extract, frozen tea extract, frozen lemonade concentrate, frozen vegetable concentrate, frozen animal broth or stock, frozen liquid dairy product, frozen alcohol product, And frozen fruit concentrate, or any combination thereof. The inclusions are frozen liquids and, therefore, should be used only as a liquid consumable or food liquid, because the contents are freeze-thawed liquids. Since no filter is required in the vessel, there is no need to extract and there is no need to produce waste byproducts.

In some instances, the container is configured to puncture the container prior to inserting the container into the device, to perforate the container after inserting the container into the device, or both. The container may include an uncharged area, e.g., a headspace between the frozen liquid containment and the cap, wherein the area includes an inert or reducing reactive gas in place of the atmospheric air in the container . This area also allows movement of the frozen liquid contents in the vessel to allow for the creation of a flow path for diluting / melting the fluid around the frozen liquid contents during product preparation.

In some instances, the frozen liquid containment and container is provided in a controlled portion arrangement. The controlled portion arrangement may include a single-serving size form. Said controlled subdivision may comprise a batch-serving size form for generating multiple servings from single or multiple injections of liquid.

In some instances, packages, receptacles, containers, etc. are configured to receive liquid or other forms of heat heated through the perforations to facilitate liquefaction and dilution of the frozen liquid contents. The package may be configured to receive heat from the outside to facilitate melting of the frozen liquid content prior to, or simultaneously with, the introduction of the melt / diluent fluid.

In some examples, the container includes an end having a bi-stable or one-turn deformable dome shape to facilitate perforation of the container without interfering with the frozen liquid contents due to movement into the headspace can do. Also, the frozen liquid containment is formed to include a through hole in the body such that liquid injected into the container can flow through the through-hole from the container to the outlet point.

The disclosed invention includes a method of making a liquid food or beverage from a package containing a frozen liquid containing. The method includes providing a liquid containment frozen in an enclosed vessel wherein the vessel is configured to store the frozen liquid containment. In this embodiment, the method always involves melting the frozen liquid content in a sealed container to produce a molten liquid. The method includes drilling the sealed container in a first position to dispense the molten liquid from the container to produce a consumable liquid food or beverage.

In some instances, the step of melting the frozen liquid content further comprises piercing the sealed container in a second position to inject a heated liquid or other form of heat into the container, And melting and diluting the water. The step of melting the frozen liquid inclusions comprises applying the externally applied thermal or electrical frequency energy to the enclosed container through the injected liquid, gas or vapor, or in the enclosed container to melt the frozen liquid inclusions in the form of a consumable liquid .

The disclosed invention includes a packaging system for producing a liquid food or beverage directly therefrom using packaged frozen liquid inclusions. The system includes a frozen liquid containment and a vessel defining a cavity for receiving and storing the frozen liquid containment. The system further includes a lid for forming a cap sealed with the container, wherein the lid permits injection of liquid, gas or vapor into the cavity to melt and dilute the frozen liquid content And the container may be perforated such that the molten and / or diluted frozen liquid content may be dispensed therefrom in the form of a consumable liquid beverage.

In addition to food and beverage packaging systems, the systems and techniques described herein may be used in devices for melting and / or diluting frozen liquid contents stored in such packaging systems, wherein the frozen liquid contents of the package are nutritive Without food and drink concentrates, extracts and other consumable fluid types) and various methods for delivering the molten and / or diluted inclusion for immediate consumption. The techniques described herein may conveniently and spontaneously produce single-sub or multi-sub-consumable food or liquid-based food directly from the container, for example, so that the consumer has fresh taste, potency, volume, . In order to achieve this object, a frozen liquid containment, preferably a flash-frozen liquid containment, made up of concentrates, extracts and other consumable fluid types is filled with a gas impermeable MAP, Can be packaged in a filterless regenerable container of water. In addition, such containers can be accommodated and used by machine-based dispensing systems to facilitate the melting and / or dilution of the contents and to provide products having the desired properties including taste, aroma strength, volume, temperature, Designed to be so, consumers can continue to experience the best taste and freshness that can not be used by any other means in use today. Unlike current single-sub coffee producers that make finished products through an extraction process ( e . G., Extraction of a soluble product from a hard coffee ground), the disclosed approach provides ideal conditions for capturing and preserving flavor in a factory environment The freeze-dried extract or concentrate produced through the initial manufacturing process that may occur in the product is melted and diluted to produce a product.

Such techniques include, but are not limited to, the ability to retain a frozen liquid containment as described above, the ability to configure the frozen liquid containment in one form or another, the ability to melt and / or dilute the frozen liquid containment, Methods, and device features, including the ability to consume the desired features. In some embodiments, a sealed container containing a frozen liquid inclusion is inserted into the machine. The machine then punches the sealed container and a heated liquid, gas or vapor is injected therein to melt and dilute the frozen liquid contents. The machine also punctures the container so that the molten and / or diluted frozen liquid contents can be dispensed into the second container in the form of a consumable liquid beverage. Other possible modifications to each of these functions include, but are not limited to, using a freezing process to remove heat from a supplied dilute liquid, gas or vapor, rather than using a negative of the frozen liquid content as a food or beverage coolant to make a cold or ice drink The use of energy, etc. will be described in more detail below.

In one aspect of the invention, the container includes a sidewall having a tapered portion increasing in dimension from a first end of the container to a second end of the container, and an end layer disposed at a first end of the container. The end layer is formed of a sheet with no openings, and the side walls and end layers define the cavity of the container. The second end of the container defines an opening. The container also includes a solid frozen liquid content disposed in the cavity of the container and a puncturable cap formed on the opening of the container to seal the container. At least a portion of the solid frozen liquid containment, at least a portion of the sidewall, and at least a portion of the perforable cap define an empty space within the container free of solid frozen liquid inclusions, and the container is configured to be inserted into the dispensing device. The end layer of the vessel may be punctured by a needle disposed within the dispensing device. The solid frozen liquid containment has a first position and a second position in the cavity. In the first position, the solid frozen liquid content substantially coincides with the entire end layer of the vessel. In the second position, the solid frozen liquid inclusions are moved from the end layer of the vessel to an empty space, at least a portion of the void space remaining unoccupied by the solid frozen liquid inclusion.

In some embodiments, the container comprises a gas impermeable material configured to preserve the freshness and aroma of the solid frozen liquid containing material.

In another embodiment, each of the container and the closure includes a renewable material such that the container and closure can be recycled.

In another embodiment, the vessel is filterless.

In another embodiment, the container comprises aluminum.

In one embodiment, the sidewall, end layer, and puncturable cap define a single chamber.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method of making a molten liquid product from a container containing a frozen liquid inclusion comprises providing a container containing a frozen liquid inclusion. The container has an end layer disposed at an end of the container, wherein the frozen liquid content substantially contacts the entire end layer of the container. The frozen liquid containment and container define a void area in the container that does not have a frozen liquid containment. The method also includes placing a container containing the frozen liquid inclusions in a chamber of the dispenser, puncturing the end layer of the container with a first needle, and removing the frozen liquid inclusions from the end layer, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > pore < / RTI > The method further comprises causing the dispenser to melt the frozen liquid content in the container to produce a molten liquid product and capture the molten liquid product from the container.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises puncturing the vessel at at least one location that is different than the puncturing of the end layer.

In another embodiment, the vessel is filterless.

In another embodiment, the container further comprises a sidewall and a perforable cap. The sidewall extends from the end layer at the first end of the vessel to the second end of the vessel, and the sidewall and end layers define the pores of the vessel. The second end of the vessel defines an opening, wherein the perforable cap is formed over the opening, wherein the side wall, the end layer and the perforable cap define a single chamber.

In another embodiment, the step of melting the frozen liquid content of the dispenser comprises punching the container with a second needle at a second location where the dispenser differs from the perforation of the end layer, Injecting a liquid above the freezing temperature of the frozen liquid inclusion through the channel of the freezing liquid into the container to melt and dilute the frozen inclusion in the container.

In another embodiment, the step of the dispenser melting the frozen liquid containment comprises: (a) applying heat to the outer surface of the vessel, and (b) adding at least one of the diluent to the inner space of the vessel Through which the dispenser melts the frozen liquid contents.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method of making a molten liquid product from a container containing a frozen liquid inclusion comprises the step of accommodating a container containing a frozen liquid inclusion in the chamber of the dispenser. The container has an end layer disposed at an end of the container, wherein the frozen liquid content substantially contacts the entire end layer of the container. The frozen liquid containment and container define a void region in the vessel that does not have a frozen liquid inclusions. The dispenser punctures the end layer of the container with a first needle. The method also includes removing the frozen liquid inclusion from the end layer and displacing the frozen liquid inclusion into the void region. The dispenser melts the frozen liquid content in the vessel to produce a molten liquid product which dispenses the molten liquid product from the vessel.

In one embodiment, removing the frozen liquid content from the end layer and displacing the frozen liquid content into the void region occurs because the dispenser punctures the end layer of the vessel with the first needle.

In other embodiments, the frozen liquid content is completely melted prior to dispensing the molten liquid product.

In a further embodiment, the step of melting the frozen liquid content comprises heating the first needle after perforating the end layer.

In another embodiment, the method also includes puncturing the container with the dispenser at at least one location that is different from the perforation of the end layer.

In another embodiment, the vessel is filterless.

In one embodiment, the step of melting the frozen liquid content comprises punching the container with a second needle at a second location where the dispenser differs from the perforation of the end layer and the dispenser heating the second needle.

In another embodiment, the step of the dispenser melting the frozen liquid containment comprises: (a) applying heat to the outer surface of the vessel, and (b) adding at least one of the diluent to the inner space of the vessel Through which the dispenser melts the frozen liquid inclusions.

In another embodiment, the method also includes the step of the dispenser identifying the characteristics of the frozen liquid containment of the container. Optionally, the step of the dispenser identifying features of the frozen liquid containment of the container includes reading the optical code on the outer surface of the container. Optionally, the step of the dispenser identifying features of the frozen liquid containment of the container comprises the dispenser reading the shape of the container.

In one embodiment, the method also includes the step of the dispenser receiving a desired temperature for the molten liquid product and receiving a desired volume for the molten liquid product. The dispenser selectively applies heat to the outer surface of the container and selectively adds the diluent to the interior of the container based on the identified characteristics of the frozen liquid content, the desired temperature, and the desired volume for the molten liquid product.

In another aspect of the present invention, a container includes a sidewall having a tapered portion increasing in dimension from a first end of the container to a second end of the container, and an end layer disposed at a first end of the container. The end layer is defined as a sheet without openings, said side walls and said end layer defining a cavity of said container. The second end of the container defines an opening. The solid frozen liquid inclusion is placed in the cavity of the container, and a perforable cap is formed on the opening of the container sealing the container. At least a portion of the solid frozen liquid containment, at least a portion of the sidewall, and at least a portion of the perforable cap define an empty space within the container free of solid frozen liquid inclusions. The container is configured to be inserted into the dispensing device, and the end layer of the container is perforated by a needle disposed within the dispensing device. The solid frozen liquid containment has a first position and a second position in the cavity. In the first position, the solid frozen liquid inclusions are adjacent the end layer of the container. In the second position, the solid frozen liquid inclusion is displaced from the end layer of the container to the void space. In the second position, at least a portion of the void space is present with the solid frozen liquid contents empty.

In one embodiment, when the solid frozen liquid containment is in the first position, the void space defined by the solid frozen liquid containment, the sidewall portion and the perforable cap portion is sealed by the side wall, end layer and puncturable cap It is about half or more of the total volume defined.

In another embodiment, the solid frozen liquid containment is sufficiently rigid at a temperature from about 0 ℉ to about 32 서 so that the force exerted by the needle of the dispensing apparatus moves the solid frozen liquid inclusion from the first position to the second position .

In another embodiment, the container also includes a platform disposed between the solid frozen liquid containment and the end layer. The platform is configured to contact a needle of a dispensing device when the end layer is punctured by the needle. Optionally, the end layer includes an indentation complementary to the shape of the platform, and the platform is disposed within the indentation.

In yet another embodiment, the platform is a substantially flat disk. Alternatively, the platform is at least one of a recess or a convex with respect to the end layer. Also alternatively, the platform is a waveform.

In another embodiment, the platform includes an overflow tube. The overflow tube has at least one channel that allows flow to pass from the first side of the platform to the second side of the platform through the channel.

In one embodiment, the tapered portion of the side wall is a continuous taper.

In yet another embodiment, the tapered portion of the sidewall includes a first tapered portion and a second tapered portion. The first tapered portion tapers to a greater extent than the second tapered portion. The first tapered portion is adjacent the end layer and the second tapered portion is located distal to the end layer. Optionally, the height of the solid frozen liquid inclusion is less than the transition point between the first tapered portion and the second tapered portion.

Thus, in order to provide a better understanding of the following detailed description, and to enable a better understanding of the present contribution to the art made by the devices and techniques disclosed herein, the features of the disclosed invention may be broadly described Respectively. Of course, there are additional features of the disclosed apparatus and techniques described below. It is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. In addition, any of the above aspects and implementations may be combined with other aspects and implementations and may be within the scope of the present invention.

The various objects, features and advantages of the disclosed technology can be more fully understood with reference to the following detailed description of the disclosed invention when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements.
FIGS. 1A-1G illustrate various embodiments of a container shape and a frozen liquid containment that are constructed in different shapes according to some embodiments and packaged to enable a desired flow of liquid through a frozen liquid containment.
Figures 2a-d illustrate various implementations of how a dilution system can add or deliver liquid to / from a frozen liquid containment by penetrating the package according to some embodiments and heating the package externally and controllably Fig.
Figure 3 illustrates a method of dissolving a frozen liquid inclusion using some alternative heat source without using a melt / diluent according to some embodiments.
4A-4D illustrate an exemplary machine-based device capable of accommodating various container configurations in accordance with some embodiments.
Figure 5 illustrates a series of exemplary packaging options and container configurations that may be received by a machine-based device in accordance with some implementations.
Figures 6 and 7 illustrate two versions of a container having the same end geometry and height, but with different sidewall profiles, according to some embodiments.
Figures 8 and 9 illustrate two versions of a side wall indentation in a container that may be used for both liquefaction promotion and product identification in accordance with some embodiments.
Figures 10a-10e illustrate five possible needle shapes that may be used to perforate the container according to some embodiments.
Figure 11 illustrates the use of centrifugal movement to facilitate liquefaction of a frozen liquid containment in accordance with some embodiments.
12A and 12B illustrate spring-loaded needles according to some embodiments.
Figures 13A-13D illustrate a method of making a food or beverage from a frozen liquid containing according to some embodiments.
14A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a container with an internal platform in accordance with some embodiments.
Figure 14B shows a side cross-sectional view of a container having an inner platform and a removed frozen liquid inclusion according to some embodiments.
Figure 14C illustrates a frozen liquid containment platform in accordance with some embodiments.
14D illustrates a frozen liquid containment platform having an overflow tube in accordance with some embodiments.
15A shows a side cross-sectional view of a container according to some embodiments.
Figure 15B shows a side cross-sectional view of detail A of Figure 15A in accordance with some embodiments.
Figure 16 shows a side cross-sectional view of a container with a platform having an overflow tube according to some embodiments.
Figure 17 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a container with a platform having an overflow tube according to some embodiments.
18 shows a side cross-sectional view of a container according to some embodiments.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in connection with the disclosed system and method of the present invention, and the environment in which such systems and methods may operate to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the disclosed invention may be practiced without these specific details, and that the specific features well known in the art are not described in detail to avoid the complexity of the disclosed inventions. It is also to be understood that the implementations described below are illustrative and that other systems and methods within the scope of the disclosed inventions may be contemplated.

The various techniques described herein provide for the packaging of one or more frozen food or beverage liquids using a filterless vessel and a method for efficiently converting such frozen liquid contents into high quality delicious food or beverage products. The single-chamber filter-less receptacle allows the machine-based system to receive the container and facilitate melting and / or dilution of the frozen liquid containment to produce the desired taste, potency, volume, temperature ≪ / RTI > and texture. For simplicity, frozen food or beverage liquids may be referred to as "frozen liquid content" or "frozen liquid content. &Quot;

In some embodiments, the liquid that is frozen to produce a frozen liquid inclusion may be any frozen liquid material, and in some embodiments it may be used to remove certain soluble solids using a so-called extract, e . ≪ / RTI > For example, the extract can use water to remove certain soluble solids from coffee grounds or tea leaves. Somewhat confusingly, certain liquid extracts of water with high solids content are often referred to as concentrated extracts. The use of the term "enriched ", in connection with this, means that the high solids content is achieved purely through solvent extraction of the solid or by removing the solvent from the liquid by some means such as reverse osmosis or evaporation using heat or cooling, Depending on whether it has been achieved through the second stage of concentration, which increases the efficacy or strength.

Unlike "brewer ", which is a system for making beverage products by extracting or solubilizing solids (for example , separately from factories that can treat bulk / leaf etc.), the apparatus described herein for facilitating beverage production, . Rather, it is melted and / or diluted by a dispensing function that can be used to produce drinks from previously extracted frozen liquid inclusions.

The liquid used to prepare the frozen liquid inclusions may also be a product obtained by removing water or other solvent from a consumable compound such as a pure concentrate such as fruit juice or soup to produce a fruit juice concentrate or a broth concentrate Lt; / RTI > In some embodiments, water may be removed from the milk to produce condensed milk. A high TDS value and / or concentration may reduce transport costs and shelf space, or may, for convenience, extend the shelf life due to variability in the efficacy and serving size of the product produced through dilution or improved antibacterial properties, e.g. due to reduced water activity . These details are intended to illustrate the modifications, but any liquid food or beverage product is within the scope of the invention regardless of the method of preparation and regardless of solids content.

In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containing material may be one of coffee or tea extract, lemonade, fruit juice, broth, liquid dairy, alcohol, syrup, viscous liquid or any frozen liquid food. The frozen liquid inclusion may be nutritive or nontoxic, and may be naturally or artificially flavored and packaged with or without preservatives. Frozen liquid inclusions may include carbohydrates, proteins, dietary minerals and other nutrients that support energy or metabolism. The frozen liquid containing material may include or enhance, among other things, additives such as vitamins, calcium, potassium, sodium and / or iron. The frozen liquid inclusion may contain antimicrobial additives, antioxidants and preservatives such as synthetic and / or non-synthetic compounds. Examples of preservatives include lactic acid, nitrates and nitrates, benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, hydroxybenzoic acid salt, propionic acid, sodium propionate, sulfur dioxide and sulfite, sorbic acid and sodium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, tocopherol, ascorbate, butyl (And citrate), tartaric acid and lecithin, ascorbic acid, phenol lase, rosemary extract, hops, salt, sugar, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate, sodium decanoate, sodium bicarbonate, hydrogenated hydroxyanisole, hydrogenated hydroxyanisole, , Vinegar, alcohol, diatomaceous earth, and sodium benzoate, and the like. This list of additives is intended to be within the scope of the technology described herein and it will be understood that the specifically mentioned additives are merely illustrative and may include other chemical compounds as well as derivatives thereof.

The frozen liquid containing material or material may or may not have suspended solids and may include non-soluble solids. In some embodiments, the concentrate, extract, or other consumable fluid form in which the frozen liquid containment is made may comprise an additive that is completely dissolved in the solvent prior to freezing. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containment may also include a composition mass that is not dissolved in the frozen liquid containment during the packaging process, but is dissolved by the machine-based system during manufacture of the beverage or food having the desired characteristics .

Figures 1a-1e illustrate how a frozen liquid inclusion can be structured and packaged to allow a desired flow of dilute liquid, either pressurized or gravity fed by a machine-based system through a vessel containing a frozen liquid inclusion ≪ / RTI > In addition to promoting heat transfer to the frozen liquid inclusion, the diluent may be effective in creating turbulent motion and may promote melting in various ways without departing from the scope of the invention described herein. In the container, the frozen liquid inclusion may be frozen to any useful shape or size.

In FIG. 1A, a cross-sectional view of the container 110 is shown (a sealing lid is not in place), wherein the container defines a cavity for packaging the frozen liquid containment 120. In this case, a clearance for the exit needle piercing is allowed and a passage is created around the outer surface of the frozen liquid contents in the container to produce the desired flow of the melt / dilution liquid through the container and the desired flavor, strength , And the frozen liquid inclusions are shown to have been removed from the bottom portion of the container so that a drink of volume, texture and temperature can be produced. 1B illustrates another embodiment wherein the frozen liquid containment is configured to match the exterior of the vessel and is molded into a subsequently loaded shape such that the preformed shape has through holes 130 in the body And forms a lower relief portion 132 for receiving the outlet needle apertures to provide the desired liquid flow without interception or back pressure. Figure 1C illustrates a plurality of frozen liquid contents (140-180) provided in a number of different forms and sizes with a large clearance space for providing the desired liquid flow through the vessel and around the frozen liquid containment . In some embodiments, the frozen liquid content in the sealed container may comprise a plurality of concentrates and compositions. For example, the "frozen liquid inclusions 140, 150 include lemonade concentrates, and the frozen beverage concentrates 160, 170, and 180 may include tea concentrates, so" Arnold Palmer " Lt; / RTI >

Figures 1d and 1e illustrate an embodiment of a container 115 of another shape comprising a bottom portion having a dome 195 (bi-stable or otherwise). 1D, the container 115 is shown in its initial state when the frozen liquid contents are added to the frozen portion and frozen, and the freezing of the bottom having a domed structure at the primary or initial position, Dome structure 195 is completed. Fig. 1e shows a dome 195 is placed in the container < RTI ID = 0.0 > 195 < / RTI > so that the frozen liquid containment 190 is displaced upwardly into the headspace & The position of the container 115 after it has been displaced to the secondary position facing the inside of the cavity of the container. This displacement preferably creates a space for the outlet puncturing needles at the bottom of the vessel and also creates a flow path through which any melt / dilute liquid passes outside the frozen liquid containment.

Figure 1F illustrates a container 196 including a multi-planar shape. In this embodiment, the container 196 includes different shaped portions 196A-E. In some embodiments, the process of filling, melting, and diluting the frozen liquid inclusions may generally be unaffected by the size or shape of the container. In some embodiments, for example, it is possible to facilitate and facilitate the unrestricted release of the frozen liquid containment, and to facilitate the ready flow path for receiving the needle apertures and diluting the liquid etc. Specific design considerations related to the use of geometry to allow clearance development can be considered. For example, one or more of these designs can be satisfied with a positive (non-locking) draft at the side wall of the vessel in contact with the frozen liquid inclusions. The draft can be achieved, for example, by tapering the side wall of the container such as by tapering the side wall from the bottom of the container to the top of the container (e.g., the closer the diameter of the container is to the top of the container) . This creates a positive draft to push the frozen liquid inclusion out of the bottom of the container to create a clearance around the side of the frozen liquid inclusion (e.g., to prevent mechanical locking of the frozen liquid contents to the side of the container) can do. This positive draft can be used to create a natural flow path for diluting the liquid to move it through the container, such as liquid flowing from the inlet needle to the outlet needle puncturing the container.

Figure 1G illustrates a container 197 having a lid 198 that includes a pull-tab 199 that can be removed by the consumer. The pull tab 199 may be removed to facilitate the use of a straw or similar device in combination with the container 197. As another example, the pull tab 199 can be removed to facilitate the introduction of diluent fluid into the container 197.

Figure 2a shows a perspective view of a container including a sealing cap shaped like a lid structure 118 that may include a puncture 210 therein whereby a diluent fluid Can be introduced into the container. The lid structure 118 may include tabs 119 that allow access to the frozen liquid contents by manually removing the lid without the need for perforation of the lid in certain instances. This lid structure can be made of the same material as the vessel to better support the effort for single stream recycling. Such a lid structure can be made with a sufficient gauge thickness to adequately withstand the internal pressures produced by, for example, the melt / diluent, which can be increased and decreased by forces generated by the receiving system. For example, the flow rate of vibration, centrifugal or rotating platform or injected diluent which facilitates melting affects the pressure applied to the lid, the seal and the container. Also, perforations made by the containment system can affect the pressure created in the seal, lid and container. The lid may be attached to the vessel by any suitable means, such as, for example, heat sealing or crimping, radial folding, sonic welding, and the like. This function may be accomplished by sealing the inner cavity and closing the lid By the mechanism or form of the < / RTI >

FIG. 2B shows another embodiment of a perforated lid including two perforations 215. FIG. Figure 2c shows a bottom hole 220 through which the diluent is discharged from the sealed container. However, this example is illustrative since punctures can occur anywhere in the container. The puncture can be made at a particular location to dispense a solvent, a diluent, a liquid such as water, gas or vapor for a desired melting and dilution environment, and ultimately create the desired beverage in a timely manner. The puncture can be of any size as desired, for example allowing large oversize (frozen or non-soluble solids) to be dispensed from the container. In some variations, perforation may be dispensed from the container to produce a fluid, ice, slush, or soft drink, such as a smoothie, of a frozen structure of a particular size. In addition, multiple perforations can be advantageous to provide evacuation of the vessel when the melt / diluent is injected therein.

Figure 2d illustrates an embodiment having four perforations 230-233 proximate the periphery of a container 270 for introducing liquid through a lid 250 of a top down loaded container 260 into a machine- do. As shown in this embodiment, the puncture 240 can be provided near the center of the lid of the container to allow the molten, diluted frozen liquid content to escape the container. In this figure, the frozen liquid inclusion (not shown) is frozen inside the dome-shaped bottom of the inverted vessel to allow the desired flow environment in which the liquid is redirected to the exit apertures by the tapered side of the vessel. In this example, the molten, diluted liquid may flow out of the vessel into the second vessel for consumption from the single or multiple nozzles provided by the receiving apparatus.

In some embodiments, the frozen liquid inclusions contained in these vessels can be better preserved when deaggregated or deoxygenated, including the use of deaerated or deoxygenated solvents (e. G., Water) during the extraction process, as appropriate. In some embodiments, the liquid used to make the frozen liquid containment can be frozen at the highest quality time in terms of freshness, flavor, taste and nutrition. In some embodiments, such as a coffee-based drink, the frozen liquid inclusion is flash-frozen for a period of maximum flavor immediately after extraction to preserve the optimal taste, flavor, and overall quality, And distributed in a frozen state. For example, espresso concentrates can be preserved, and the best flavor can be achieved if the water is milled within 0-36 hours after roasting, immediately after milling and deoxygenated during the extraction process. It is possible to obtain the peak flavor, optimum taste, flavor and overall quality of the extract by flash-freezing the liquid concentrate, extract or other consumable fluid during the maximum flavor period immediately after the extraction. It is also possible to pack such flash-frozen liquid into a gas impermeable and regenerable container (described further herein) using MAP technology and to freeze the frozen liquid contents during subsequent storage and delivery to the end consumer , The fresh flavor can be maintained almost indefinitely. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containment facilitates removal of the frozen, freeze-dried liquid content and the resulting bond (adhesion) between the side of the container later by removing heat from the selected and controlled portion of the vessel . For example, in certain embodiments, the liquid containment is located in the vessel and heat is removed to begin to freeze at the upper surface of the liquid, causing the liquid to freeze down. This reduces the adhesion between the frozen liquid inclusion and the inside of the side wall of the container.

In some embodiments, if the quality of the inclusions can be maintained by a syrup used to produce other FDA food safety methods such as carbonated beverages, the packaging may be distributed beyond freezing. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid inclusions are frozen during dispensing and may not melt or melt once or several times. Dispensing and maintaining the container at temperatures below the freezing point of the frozen liquid inclusion may increase quality preservation and nutritional food safety aspects, but not necessarily in all embodiments. In some embodiments, the beverage concentrate is stored frozen in the container until ready to be melted and / or diluted just before being flash-frozen and ready for consumption.

In some embodiments, the frozen liquid inclusions may also be packaged as a plurality of frozen liquid inclusions configured in a laminated and / or mixed form. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containment can be any shape or multi-layered structure, as long as the inclusions can fit within the cavity volume of the vessel while maintaining the non-filled region and can be repositioned for a particular perforation implementation by the containment system. Geometric shape. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid inclusions may be comminuted or precipitated to increase the surface area of the frozen liquid inclusions to increase the melt rate.

In some embodiments, the liquid comprising the frozen liquid inclusion may be frozen after it has been measured in the container. In some embodiments, the fluid used to create the frozen liquid containment is pre-frozen, e.g., pre-frozen, extruded, frozen, sized to size, or frozen And then may be accumulated in the container as frozen solids in a preferred form. This can be done in conjunction with the dimensions of the container with the tapered portion so that the frozen liquid inclusion does not interfere with the area of the container designated for perforation. For example, the frozen liquid inclusion may be shaped to displace from the perforated region because its diameter is greater than the diameter of the top, bottom, or other first or second end of the container as shown in Fig. 1A. In other words, the frozen liquid inclusions can be received, inserted and sealed in a container that can be accommodated by a machine-based dispensing system produced in a first step or in a separate step. In some embodiments, the liquid beverage concentrate is received as a slurry or liquid, frozen, and sealed in turn or in bulk to the container. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containment has efficacy, shape and size and is structured in a vessel such that the machine-based system can easily melt and / or dilute the liquid frozen liquid inclusions, Can be converted to a consumable liquid of the desired flavor, potency, volume, temperature and texture.

In some embodiments, a container for holding / storing a frozen liquid containing material using the techniques described herein comprises a continuous, closed bottom, a continuous sidewall extending from the bottom, and a plurality of openings extending outwardly The tapered portion includes a cup-forming portion having a sealable top opening defined by the continuous sidewalls. The wall is not disturbed by a particular puncture, a filter or other internal function that interferes with frozen liquid inclusion and flow implementations.

In some embodiments, the container includes a cavity for storing the frozen liquid content. A sealed package of a frozen liquid containment, referred to herein before or hereinafter as the "container ", may alternatively be described as a cartridge, cup, package, pouch, pod, reservoir, capsule, The container may be any shape, styling, color, or configuration, and may be styled to enhance the liquefaction environment in cooperation with the dispensing device. The package may be flexible, have a final shape, or a combination thereof. For example, due to the aesthetic or functional reasons for supplementing the pod sensing or motion-driven function applied to the pod, the walls of the container may be recessed and / or convexly shaped to provide different pod sizes while maintaining constant interface dimensions. .

For example, Figures 6 and 7 illustrate two versions of containers 610 and 710 having the same end geometry and height but different sidewall profiles. The differently curved sidewalls produce the various internal volumes that can be used for the frozen liquid inclusion and headspace, but the diameter and overall height of the two ends are the same.

In some embodiments, the outer surface of the container is pigmented or coated with a material designed to enhance the absorption of infrared energy that can be used to heat and / or melt the frozen liquid content. In some embodiments, in the cross-sectional view from the first or second end, the shape of the container side wall is a star or other non-circular shape, e.g., the peripheral surface area is larger than a smooth cylindrical or conical shape, Speeding up the heating and melting of water proportionally. This can be accomplished by effectively promoting melting by effectively promoting melting in a number of ways, including increasing the surface area to transfer heat through the vessel to the frozen liquid inclusion, thereby promoting melting or directing the liquid away from the exit perforation (s) It is possible to create a more turbulent environment that promotes heat transfer efficiency.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 8 and 9, it is possible to identify the inclusions or product groups that may be used to facilitate internal turbulence during melting and dilution of the frozen liquid inclusions and used to fill the container There is a "keying feature" 620 or 621 that may be used.

In some embodiments, the vessel includes a stopper to seal the vessel to help maintain the MAP gas environment. In this case, the hermetic seal formed between the lid and the container can be accomplished using a variety of methods including but not limited to patches, glues, corks, heat seals, crimps and / or the like. In some embodiments, the stopper is designed to be manually removable using, for example, a pull tab on the lid as previously mentioned, so that it can be used in other ways when a machine-based system for manufacturing consumable beverages is not available . In some embodiments, the apparatus may require manual drilling instead of machined drilling prior to loading the vessel into the machine-based distribution system.

The frozen liquid inclusions may be packaged in a material that controls gas movement, for example, the container may be gas impermeable to create a long lasting storage package to preserve the freshness and flavor of the packaged frozen liquid inclusions ≪ / RTI > For example, the container may be comprised of an aluminum substrate or other metallic material and, if necessary, may be made of a coating that is typically FDA approved for contact with food. As another example (for example, if reproducibility is not a major concern), the container may be composed of a multilayer barrier film, for example comprising an EVOH plastic layer. In some embodiments, when the container is made of metal, the container is preferably made of a highly thermally conductive material, such as aluminum, so that the heated dilution liquid is not the primary means for melting a particularly frozen liquid content In some cases, it supports faster heat transfer. In some embodiments, the package may include an edible packaging material that can be dissolved and consumed. In some embodiments, the container and its closure are made of a gas impermeable, renewable material, so that a waste container including a closure and other packaging features can be recycled as a whole.

In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containment is packaged to have a head space or no head space or to have a limited head space. As discussed above, the headspace refers to any surplus space within the enclosed container, optionally located between the top of the frozen liquid containment and the lid or cap portion of the container. In addition, any headspace in the packaging can advantageously be filled with a gas such as argon, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or other gaseous compounds known to be chemically less active than air or oxygen. In some embodiments, the top or outermost layer or sheath of the frozen liquid containing material may be layered with frozen, degassed coating which may act as a preservative barrier. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containment is vacuum sealed in a flexible container. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid inclusions are packaged in a container in a manner that minimizes surface-to-surface contact between the inclusions and the atmosphere, particularly oxygen, as well as gases that carry the aroma.

In some embodiments, the container is coated internally with a material that significantly reduces the force required to detach the frozen liquid contents from the sides or bottom of the container so that movement of the frozen liquid contents outwardly or by movement of the puncturing needles And creates a path that is unrestricted so that the melt and / or diluent can pass through the outer surface of the frozen liquid inclusion on the way to the exit perforation. In some embodiments, the bottom of the container is inflated downwardly away from the bottom of the container during filling and freezing of the liquid containment, and then after being frozen upside down to its second stable position to freeze the frozen liquid content from the bottom of the container (Bistable or otherwise) that allows the diluent to facilitate penetration and / or flow of the needle around the outer surface of the frozen liquid inclusions while retaining and going to the exit apertures. In some embodiments, the dome is inverted at the factory before shipping the product to the consumer. In some embodiments, the dome is inverted by a consumer just before use or by a machine as part of insertion and needle penetration. In some embodiments, the dome is inverted by the machine. This embodiment is merely an example and is not quoted to limit the functionality or features of the container that may facilitate the removal of frozen liquid inclusion or beverage production. Also, in the above example, the frozen liquid inclusion is displaced upwardly into the headspace by a perforated needle or dome. However, in other embodiments, the frozen liquid containment can be displaced in different directions (e. G., Down or sideways) into the unfilled area of the container and is within the scope of the present invention. Similarly, the frozen liquid inclusion may be of a shape and size that facilitates disruption by needles through the bottom or top of the container.

In some embodiments, the frozen liquid containment may be present in a machine-based dilution system designed for solute extraction or coffee extraction to facilitate the production of beverages of the desired flavor, potency, volume, temperature and texture, And may be packaged and structured in a container of a particular size and shape that allows the container to be received by the system.

In some embodiments, the packaging of the frozen liquid containment includes additional barriers or secondary packaging that prevent the frozen concentrate from melting or being exposed to ultraviolet light while flowing. For example, packaging a frozen liquid inclusion in a container that is further packaged in a cardboard box is an addition of an insulating layer so that, for example, if the temperature loss or melting is undesirable, Temperature loss or melting.

In an embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for producing a food or beverage from a frozen liquid containing material is advantageously also used in filtered beverage containers, for example as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,325,765, And includes a filter-less vessel that can be distinguished. The use of filterless vessels and, for example, (1) complete (virtually) complete removal of frozen liquid contents during melting and / or dilution and subsequent delivery and (2) use of homogeneous constituents make the vessel ideally suited for recycling.

In some embodiments, the container is configured to be received by the machine-based system and is capable of receiving the dispensed liquid therefrom, thereby preventing the melting and / or dilution of the frozen liquid content into the consumable liquid product having the desired series of characteristics More easily.

In some embodiments, the vessel may contain the molten inclusions and all added diluent from the machine-based system, and the article may be large enough to be consumed immediately therefrom. The perforations used to add the diluent can be adapted to be consumed directly from the container using straw or other means, as opposed to dispensing diluted and / or molten inclusions into the second container have.

In some embodiments, a container containing a frozen liquid inclusions is provided with a controlled-portion arrangement wherein the controlled-portion arrangement includes a form of single-serving size or a batch-serving size to produce multi-serving can do. In some embodiments, the machine-based system may receive the container or the plurality of containers in any manner, shape, or form to facilitate melting and dilution of the frozen liquid containing material. In some implementations, machine-based systems may accommodate multiple container types and sizes for larger product feasibility arrays.

In some embodiments, the container can be perforated by a consumer or machine-based system. For example, a consumer can remove a patch to expose a perforation in the container prior to being received by the machine-based system. Alternatively, the machine-based system can perforate the sealed container using various methods including pressure to rupture the perforated needle or container.

In some embodiments, the package may be perforated only after exposure to high temperature or mechanical action. For example, the package may be made of a sponge-like material that can penetrate frozen liquid contents when heated. In an alternative example, the frozen liquid inclusions may be thawed or liquefied to allow the machine-driven needles to pass through the vessel and contents with less force.

As described above, the perforation may be a single hole. In some embodiments, a plurality of perforations can be provided in the container at a plurality of locations. Generally, because it is not necessary to filter the molten frozen liquid inclusions, the perforations described herein are intended for the introduction of molten / dilute liquids, gases or vapors, or for the introduction of molten frozen liquid inclusions . In some embodiments, the container is pierced and introduced to allow the entire liquid containment to freeze from the container before the push-rod or the like is melted and diluted. In some embodiments, the perforations can be performed stepwise, with one perforation at different intervals in the dispensing process followed by another perforation or multiple perforations. The machine-based system may replace the frozen liquid containment, or the consumer may displace the frozen liquid containment and take it out of the package and load only the frozen liquid containment into the system. In some embodiments, the container is punctured by a machine-based system at a location where the entire frozen liquid content exits the container before or after melting to remove any recirculating contaminants from the container without wasting the beverage product.

The perforations may be performed before, after, or during the time that the frozen liquid content is melted and / or diluted. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid content is melted and escaped from the container before being diluted by the diluent dispensed to the ideal beverage. In some examples of the invention, the frozen liquid inclusions may be diluted using a dispensed liquid before the inclusions are dispensed into a subsequent or secondary container. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid content is melted and simultaneously diluted. For example, in some embodiments, a liquid may be introduced into a container containing the frozen liquid containing material to melt and / or dilute the frozen liquid containing material simultaneously or in an integral manner.

While pushing the pressurized liquid around or through the frozen liquid inclusions in the vessel may be effective to increase the melt rate, there are other ways to achieve the same results and improve the speed of this process. Figure 3 illustrates a method of making a desired beverage that does not use a pressurized liquid to simultaneously melt and / or dilute a frozen liquid inclusion. The frozen liquid inclusion 310 is enclosed in a perforable container. The container 320 is perforated and received in a machine-based system, and the frozen liquid content is liquefied through a molten component such as an external heat source or the like. The process of producing the consumable liquid product from the frozen liquid containment of the techniques described herein may be performed by an initial step of providing the inclusions in a sealed container for storage therein. The container is received by a machine-based system that heats the container through an external heat source to dissolve the frozen food or beverage in the form of a consumable liquid food or beverage, wherein the sealed cap expands the consumable liquid beverage It is perforated for direct distribution.

In some embodiments, the negative energy contained in the frozen liquid containment does not require a refrigeration system in the dispenser and is used as a dilute liquid, gas or vapor used to make consumable food or beverage as a method of promoting cold drinks from the dispenser Thereby absorbing excessive heat from the heat source. In this embodiment, which includes a beverage to be provided in a cold state, melting and dilution of the frozen liquid inclusion uses a combination of external heat, energy contained in the ambient temperature diluent, and relative movement between the melt / diluent and the frozen liquid content To improve liquefaction for the purpose of minimizing the overall temperature of the final product.

With further reference to Fig. 3, the molten beverage inclusion 330 exiting the vessel is diluted in the second step or with additional liquid dispensed through a machine-based system with the desired diluent. The molten inclusions may be dispensed without being diluted before, after, or simultaneously with the addition of other liquids for dilution. This may involve capturing the molten beverage content in a liquid reservoir that mixes the two liquids before being distributed together by the machine-based system. When dispensed, the secondary vessel 340 receives the melted inclusion and diluent as appropriate.

In some embodiments, the secondary container used to collect the molten / diluted inclusion may include any container known to contain a liquid food or beverage. The secondary container may be a container, thermos, mug, cup, tumbler, bowl, and / or the like. This secondary container may or may not be included in the secondary packaging. Note: This example illustrates a soup bowl with instant rice or noodles sold with a container of frozen liquid broth concentrate that is combined to make a soup bowl after the frozen liquid inclusion is discharged into a melted and / or diluted secondary packaging This is a consumer package. Alternatively, the secondary container may be provided separately by the consumer.

In some embodiments, the consumer may desire a beverage without dilution of the frozen liquid inclusions. For example, frozen liquid inclusions already have the right flavor, volume, and efficacy. For example, the frozen liquid inclusion may already be present at the desired TDS level for consumption, such as an espresso or hot fudge source, and need to be melted and dispensed only at the desired temperature and texture. For example, a machine-based system can be made by placing a thermally conductive container in a coil heater or by irradiating infrared light or by impinging a heated gas or vapor on the exterior of the container and then piercing the container after the container has reached the desired temperature The liquid content can be dissolved. In addition, frozen liquid inclusions can be conveniently dispensed from a machine-based system into subsequent containers. In some instances, the lid is removed before or after melting and heating for direct consumption from the container.

4A-4D illustrate an exemplary machine-based apparatus capable of accommodating various containers in accordance with some embodiments. The system may be, for example, a melting system. The vessel may comprise, for example, various filterless vessels of various sizes and shapes, each having a quantity of frozen liquid contents. The device may be configured to perform a melt, dilute, and transfer function for the purpose of producing a beverage or food having the desired characteristics as described herein.

In Figure 4A, the system 400 includes a cassette 430 into which containers of different sizes and / or shapes can be loaded. Once loaded into the single vessel, the cassette 430 slides into place and can pass through the clearance tunnel 435 until the vessel is centered on the main system body 410. The description of the use of the melting system 400 may be communicated to the user via the display 420. [ The solvent (e.g., water) used to melt / dilute the frozen liquid contents of the vessel is stored in the storage tank 440 until needed.

4B and 4C, once the receptacle is properly positioned for interaction with the system, the needle support arm 450 may be inserted, for example only, by the needle 457 into the open end of the receptacle Or any other known means capable of including a motor 451 and / or a screw 452 including an electric or gas-driven deformation until it is moved to the container. The use of a manual lever to perforate the container is also within the scope of the present invention. The shape of the needle may include a protruding tip to allow the container to be inserted at a constant depth and angle to the container to cleave, break or remove a portion of the frozen liquid containment to chip to facilitate the flow path to the exit point . Needle 457 may rotate in a screw motion at a constant depth to facilitate penetration of the container and / or frozen liquid contents. Alternatively, the needles may be retracted after perforation in the vessel or to a second depth from the vessel to mitigate the initial dispensing pressure or to provide an unobstructed perforation outlet. The needles can be heated before insertion into the container or during insertion. The heated probe may be inserted into the vessel through one of the perforations to accelerate the melting of the dispensed content. Depending on the container design and its contents, the second needle support arm 455 may be moved toward the container to pierce the bottom of the container using a similar motor 454 and drive screw 455. A heater such as a plate heater or an IR heating source (not shown) may be used to preheat or melt the frozen liquid inclusions depending on the selected product and the desired process. If desired, the melt / dilute solution stored in the storage tank 440 may be passed through a heat exchanger (not shown), through a needle 457 and into a currently perforated container, using a pipe (not shown) have. The molten liquid may then be withdrawn from the vessel through the needle 456. In one embodiment, the perforation needle 457 can be a hot liquid, vapor, gas, or any of these, in a manner that aids in the liquid product to produce a bubble-like texture for coffee-based dairy products such as cappuccino and latte, The combination can be injected directly into the pod. In one embodiment, the needle injected into the pod does not include the existing structure and can be used purely to stabilize the pod.

10A-10E, the dispensing or drainage orifice (s) or relief of the needle may be located at or at point 1001, such as at 1000A, or axially aligned as in FIG. 10A, or as shown in FIG. 10C (S) 1005 and 1006 so that the liquid injected into the container is directed away from the center of the frozen liquid containment and can be located in the side 1004 as in 10d and 10d, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > frozen < / RTI > Concerns about needle strength and durability can be resolved with a crossed (1003) needle structure 1000B as in Fig. 10b. Example 10e is first used to easily penetrate the closed end of the container with a sharp point 1007 and then to withstand a frozen liquid inclusion having a dome-shaped end 1008 without piercing, / The diluted liquid is discharged, wherein the side opening is located adjacent the inner surface of the closed end of the vessel. A rotating screw, such as a perforated needle portion, can be used like an Archimedes pump to direct the flow of the exiting fluid.

Figure 4d illustrates one embodiment of a cassette or other apparatus that can maintain a variety of vessel sizes and shapes to allow use of a wide range of beverages, soups, etc. with a melting apparatus.

FIG. 5 shows a range of container sizes and shapes that can be received by a cassette of machines (e.g., cassette 430 of FIG. 4A). Brewers can accommodate an unlimited number of different containers, each of which can be replaced with an original, but using different cassettes with different sizes and shapes of holes. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the process of filling, melting and diluting the frozen liquid inclusion may, in some embodiments, generally be unaffected by the size or shape of the container.

The melting system may use any source of heat, movement, or a combination thereof to promote liquefaction of the frozen liquid inclusions. Thus, the melting system may include various sources of heat and / or movement. Electromagnetic radiation, heating coils, hot air, thermoelectric plates, heated liquid baths, steam, etc. are all examples of possible heat sources that can accelerate the melting rate. Further, the motion can be introduced by using a vibration platform or the like as means for stirring up, down, or up and down by using centrifugal separation, rotation, shaking, rotation, or linear reciprocating motion, or as means for increasing the melting rate. In other embodiments, the perforations and pressures caused by the injected liquid can rotate and move the frozen liquid contents inside the container to create the desired environment for liquefaction. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that a variety of different physical working principles and mechanisms can be used to facilitate liquefaction. As described herein, a passive or automatic (electronic) machine-based method can be used to promote melting and temperature rise of frozen liquid contents using various forms of movement, electrical frequency / electromagnetic energy, and / or heat . In this example, the puncture needle can be provided with a range of motion to implement or supplement the range of motion. For example, in a centrifuge system, the needles can rotate with the container.

System 400 includes an internal electronic component, a memory, and an appropriate controller, along with programming instructions for automatically generating the desired food and / or drink. System 400 may be commanded by a user via a display or other known method , for example , a wireless command from a handheld device.

The finished food or drink may be made into a frozen liquid containment of the container at a temperature desired by the consumer and in a manner suitable for direct consumption by the consumer. In one embodiment, the frozen liquid containing material is melted and diluted with a cool or ambient temperature liquid such that the frozen liquid inclusions melt and are heated to a minimum for a typically cold consumable beverage such as juice, ice coffee, soda, and the like.

In the specific example shown in FIG. 11, a container having a tapered side surface 520 is perforated at the top and bottom of the container, and room temperature liquid is injected through the top piercing needle 1000D. As the liquid is injected into the container, the machine-based device rotates with the container such that liquid 1101 in the container flows out of the outlet perforation (s) of the container formed by the bottom-piercing needle 1000B, And cooperates with the container. Thus, the diluent liquid may interact with the frozen liquid containment 190 for a longer period of time in the vessel and may provide more heat exchange between the frozen liquid containment and the diluent. The outflow of liquid can be effectively controlled by the flow of water by pushing out water or by reducing or stopping the agitation operation when the pod approaches or abuts the capacity. Optionally, the bottom-piercing needle 1000B removes frozen liquid contents from the bottom of the container.

In some implementations of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the dispensing system includes a motor or other known mechanism that rotates the container 520 about its axis of rotation. Rotational motion imparted to the liquid by rotation about the axis, in conjunction with the radius and geometry of the container, overcomes the normal gravitational pulling force of the liquid phase, causing the liquid to move along the sides of the container and away from the bottom of the container 1101 . The puncture formed by the needle 1000B is located in the empty space created when the liquid is displaced.

In some embodiments, the inertia of the spinning liquid adds a new liquid to the vessel to bring the desired product out, or keep the liquid in the sidewall of the vessel until the rotational speed is reduced. In this embodiment, the flow rate of the liquid entering the vessel, in part, controls the amount of time the molten freeze content is in the vessel. This residence time affects the temperature exchange between the frozen inclusion and the diluent and ultimately influences the temperature of the liquid product discharged. In some embodiments, the flow rate and pressure of the diluent supplied into the vessel is controlled by the amount of liquid pushed through the outlet perforation (s) by overcoming the displacement force imparted by the rotational motion applied to the vessel for a clean, uniform flow from the vessel It affects the quantity. In some embodiments, a motor or other mechanism that induces rotation of the vessel is positioned so as not to be an obstacle to the liquid supplied or discharged. A belt or gear system, for example, is used to drive the vessel about an axis without having to place a motor or other instrument above or below the vessel.

In embodiments in which the frozen liquid inclusion is moved away from the bottom of the vessel, the displacement can be achieved by the dome-shaped needle 1000E. In some embodiments, the displacement by the dome-shaped needle is combined with the reversal of the dome (bistability or other manner) described above. In this case, the dome takes a new stable position inwardly curved toward the interior of the container and keeps the frozen contents away from the bottom of the container. This can occur even if the dome-shaped needle 1000E does not maintain contact with the container. In some embodiments, the dome shaped needle 1000E pushes the bottom of the container and creates a small displacement through bending or plastic deformation of the container material. In some embodiments, a delay action occurs in puncturing the bottom of the container with the needle. This may occur simply by applying a force to the needle sufficient to cause the dome-shaped end to rupture the closed end.

In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 10E, a second penetrating head 1007 emerges from the dome shaped needle 1000E. This piercing head readily creates an initial piercing which is more easily inflated by the dome-shaped surface 1008 of the needle, allowing the needle to move further into the container and enlarge the space around the periphery of the frozen liquid content. In some embodiments, the emergence of the penetrating head 1007 of the needle is pneumatically driven. In some embodiments, this movement forms a slight tear at the closed end of the vessel so that the dome-shaped end 1008 can expand and easily pass through the breakage. On the other hand, the penetrating head 1007 can immediately retreat into the needle body.

In some embodiments, the components of the machine-based system used for dilution may include a liquid reservoir or a plurality thereof. In some embodiments, the machine-based system may be connected to a larger liquid reservoir or piping system that distributes the diluent from a suitable piping system, for example, a filtered water system connected to the building's water supply. The diluent may be water, but any liquid including carbonic acid liquid, dairy liquid, or any combination thereof, including any nutritive or non-nutritive liquid suitable for human consumption, It can be diluted. In some embodiments, the diluting liquid may be carbonated to produce a carbonated beverage, and the machine-based system may comprise a carbonated component. In some embodiments, the diluent may be increased or pressurized to a specific temperature to produce a cold or ice beverage by melting the frozen liquid content of the room temperature or cooling fluid. In some examples, the apparatus includes a refrigeration chamber for storing a container capable of automatically loading a container at a location where a person does not interact with the container and is to be produced as a beverage. The previous example can be combined with the machine's user interface to load the desired container for sales style use.

In some embodiments for producing the desired product for dilution, the diluent may be heated and / or flowed to produce a desired flavor, potency, volume, temperature and / or other desired properties in a just-in- To produce a textured, consumable liquid product. In some embodiments, the diluent component may also act as a molten component. In some embodiments, the diluent is heated and / or flowed to complement any melt components (e.g., electric heaters) to produce a consumable liquid product having the desired characteristics in time.

In some embodiments, water is heated in the dispenser with steam and is used as a means for externally heating the vessel or outlet path of the molten / diluted fluid. In some embodiments, such external columns may be used at different levels (posi- tions) or locations based on different possible purposes. For example, such objects may include, but are not limited to: (a) melting only the outer layer of the frozen liquid containing material so that it can more easily displace from the closed end of the container; (b) partially melting the bulk of the frozen liquid containing material as a supplement to the low temperature water used for melting / diluting, especially the low temperature end product as required juice and other beverages; (c) completely melting the frozen liquid content as a means for dispensing the diluted molten liquid from the container; (d) secondarily heating the melted / diluted beverage when leaving the vessel to heat the final beverage to a more desirable temperature as it flows to the beverage cup or mug or other vessel through the outlet channel; And (e) heating one of the needles used to perforate the container to facilitate a certain degree of easy penetration into the frozen liquid containment. In some embodiments, the vapor used for this purpose may be replaced by hot air or other heated gas produced using a combustible fuel such as electricity or natural gas inside or outside the dispenser body. The use of steam or hot gases may provide a greater level of control in the heating / melting of the frozen liquid contents, which may be particularly important when the cooled beverage or food is required as a final consumer. This process also takes measures to carefully measure / control the amount of steam or hot gas added to the total energy balance.

In some embodiments, the container loaded in the dispenser is heated prior to perforating the bottom of the container. Which allows the frozen liquid inclusion to remain in contact with the bottom and sidewalls of the container to increase the transfer of heat to the frozen liquid containment. In this embodiment, the bottom of the container is punctured after a predetermined time or after the container has reached a predetermined temperature. The additional delay in perforating the closed end / bottom of the container allows a certain amount of melt / dilution fluid to enter the container to completely enclose the frozen inclusions, Is intended to fill any air gap of the < / RTI > This allows efficient transfer of heat from the receiver to liquid and frozen inclusions without the insulation effect of the air gap.

13A, a filterless vessel 1310 having a frozen liquid containment 1320 and a headspace 1306 is configured to receive a support tray 1302 and a container 1302, The side wall of the container 1310 is brought into close contact with the wall of the receiver 1301 and the flange of the container is positioned in the heatable receiver 1301 of the dispenser to be supported by the tray 1302. [ When the cover 1303 of the dispenser is closed by the user, the dispenser will be trapped in and adhered to the fitted tray 1302 and the receiver 1301. The receiver can be heated using any of the techniques described herein and the close contact between the receiver wall and the container sidewall allows the dispenser to efficiently heat the contents of the container.

13B, during the closure of the receiver cover 1303, one or more spring-loaded supply needles 1304 pass through the top lid of the container and one or more of the discharge needles 1200 pass through the bottom of the container. The operation of the needles may be powered by the manual force of the user closing the receptors of the dispenser, or alternatively, one or both of these operations may be performed by controlled actuators. 13B, these needles may also be fabricated with the aid of a spring mechanism that limits the force exerted by the needles when attempting to pass the frozen inclusions 1320. As shown in FIG.

10E, in some embodiments, the blunt tip 1008 on the dispensing needle 1000E moves the frozen liquid contents of the container into a headspace tapered away from the closed bottom of the container, - Supported by tip-shaped discharge needles. In one embodiment, such a blunt drain needle may be a double drain flow (1009) without interference from a supported frozen liquid inclusion using a T-shaped passage (1009) having an opening in the sidewall of the needle positioned closer to the bottom of the vessel, To allow the container to be emptied / evacuated. In another embodiment, the exit needle is part of an assembly as shown in Figures 12A and 12B. The needle assembly is secured by a portion of the dispenser frame 1201 and includes a penetrator 1203, a compression spring 1202, a dome shaped needle housing 1204 and a fluid collection tray 1205. When the needle assembly 1200 initially passes through the closed end of the container, the penetrator 1203 passes through the needle housing 1204 and seals it to prevent fluid from escaping from the container. The perforator 1203 is then urged upward by a spring 1202 to open the channel in the interior of the needle housing 1204 so that fluid is discharged from the container and collected by the tray 1205, Dispensed into the cup.

The sharp tip (s) of the spring-loaded supply needle (s) 1304, on the other hand, are fixed with respect to the recently transferred frozen inclusions 1320 through the lid of the container, Further penetration may be interrupted due to interference between the upper surfaces of the water. The dispenser's heatable receiver 1301 controllably warms and defrosts the frozen liquid contents of the vessel to soften the recently repositioned frozen liquid contents in the vessel and to freeze < RTI ID = 0.0 > The liquid content is prepared. In some embodiments, the measured liquid portion is injected into the container simultaneously with needle insertion to help transfer heat from the receiver through the gap created when the frozen inclusions are displaced from the container bottom (and potentially sidewall) Accelerates the melting process.

In some embodiments, the injection of liquid into the container causes the supply needle (s) to further move into the frozen liquid containment of the container under the influence of spring pressure thereafter as the frozen liquid containment softens due to heating . This action further thaws and / or dilutes the frozen liquid contents. In some embodiments, the inclusions controllably flow through the twin T-shaped passageways 1009 of the blunt drain needle 1000E at this point. In other embodiments, the drain needle is closed along its flow path, as shown in Figure 12A, thereby preventing inclusion drain until the supply needle (s) reach the selected drain depth as shown in Figure 13C . Likewise, injection of liquid is retarded to prevent vessel breakage and / or overflow.

As the dispenser continues to defrost and dilute the frozen liquid contents, the supply needle is fully extended to the fully deployed length as shown in Figure 13D by spring action, which is insufficient to contact the bottom of the container. The supply needle can supply the fluid within the temperature and volume required by the food or beverage in the container. In some embodiments, as shown in Figs. 10C and 10D, these needles 1000C and 1000D are formed of an "L" -shaped < RTI ID = 0.0 & One or two internal passages. This geometry is intended to controllably agitate the frozen liquid contents of the vessel to provide better mixing, cleaner waste cups and to increase the thawing rate through such mechanical agitation. This agitation within the fixed vessel can be rotated in any direction as designed by the exit of the needle and the flow control valve of the dispenser, or can be tumbled in a constantly changing turbulent operation. Also, in some embodiments, the liquid is supplied to the supply needle in an alternating fashion to induce an anteroposterior movement, a rotational motion, or other turbulent action. This liquid supply can be achieved by the use of a multi-directional valve controlled by a dispenser system.

Optionally, the locking mechanism maintains the spring in a compressed state until a certain criterion is met, such as applying heat to the container to sufficiently soften and liquefy the frozen inclusion so that the needle penetrates the inclusions. In another embodiment, heat in the form of gas, liquid or vapor is fed through the feed needle during initial deployment. The supply of gas, liquid or vapor continues until the needle is fully extended or other criteria are met.

In some embodiments, the molten component or its multiple and diluent components or a plurality of its variables are programmable and adjustable to produce a broader range of characteristics for beverage and liquid food production. For example, reducing the temperature of the pressurized liquid used for dilution will reduce the temperature of the consumable liquid product produced by the machine-based system and apparatus.

In one particular embodiment presented for illustrative purposes only, a coffee extract with a TDS of 12 frozen 1 oz is packaged in a container, heated water is supplied to the container to melt the contents and diluted to 7 oz at 200 degrees Based system that promotes melting of frozen liquid inclusions to provide a single serving of 8 oz hot coffee beverage with a TDS of 1.5 at the desired temperature. In some implementations, other measurement techniques may be used in place of TDS, such as BRIX. Alternatively, by an adjustable dilution setting, the frozen coffee extract may be melted and diluted with only 1 oz of water to produce a 2 oz espresso-style drink at the desired temperature with a TDS of about 6. In addition, the container can be heated so that the frozen extract hardly dissolves, and can be added to a consumer-supplied liquid such as milk for icing or ice latte or other iced drinks such as juice, iced coffee or tea.

In some embodiments, the variables defining the frozen liquid inclusions, such as temperature, volume, shape, size, portionality, etc., may also be adjusted during manufacture of the liquid used to freeze the frozen liquid inclusion, / ≪ / RTI > food or beverage from a machine-based system with limited control. For example, freezing a less effective fluid as a basis for a frozen liquid containment of a given container can be used to produce beverages of lower temperature ceteris paribus.

It may also be considered as part of the techniques described herein that the machine-based system includes sensor technology capable of automatically adjusting the setting of molten and / or diluted components to produce the desired beverage or liquid food results. Perforation characteristics may also be programmable or automatically set using sensor technology to help recognize vessel type, size, inclusions, floor location, and other characteristics. This sensor technology may also be used to prevent certain settings from being applied. For example, a frozen broth concentrate container can inhibit the consumer from over-diluting and wasting the product. As another example, the frozen broth concentrate vessel can inhibit the consumer from implementing a setting to overheat the orange juice concentrate, for example. In some implementations, such sensor technology helps produce desirable products and eliminates human error. In some embodiments, such a sensor method is operated using a specific geometry formed in the vessel. For example, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, indentations of a particular length may be sensed physically or optically by a dispensing machine, and such measurements are used to convey information about the contents of the container, Thus allowing the dispensing machine to automatically select the appropriate dissolution / dilution process. Physical modification to the shape of the container, as illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, may also help to mix the diluent injected into the container, and as a result may help promote liquefaction of the frozen liquid contents.

In some embodiments, the melt and / or dilution control may be programmable or set using a bar code type indication or other visual data system on the container to achieve a product that meets the consumer's personal preference. A machine-based system can detect and read bar codes, data glyphs, QR codes, RFID tags, or other machine-readable indicia. In some embodiments, at least one criterion of the container or the frozen liquid containment establishes or inhibits the setting of the aqueous machine-based system to produce the desired product. These criteria may include, but are not limited to, weight, color, shape, structure and temperature. In some embodiments, the machine-based system may include a thermocouple for detecting the frozen liquid content and / or the temperature of the container and automatically adjusting its setting to produce a beverage of desired flavor, strength, volume, . ≪ / RTI > This may include using a molten component that disables the dilution function and does not dispense the liquid. In addition, the consumer can input precise desired characteristics, such as temperature or efficacy, and the machine-based system can combine this with the desired sensor technology to achieve the desired parameters.

In addition, machine-based systems can be designed to produce desirable beverage and liquid food products from a variety of container styles, container sizes, and frozen liquid inclusions. In some implementations, the machine-based system may include mechanical functions for discriminating and limiting controls and settings for beverage creation.

In addition, machine-based systems may include the mechanical functions required for product creation for different containers and frozen liquid containment types. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid inclusions may be pulverized or precipitated by a machine-based system to increase the melt rate by increasing the surface area of the frozen liquid inclusions. These mechanical functions can be initiated manually by the consumer or automatically by a sensor trigger. For example, removing frozen liquid contents from the container wall can be problematic and can make it difficult to pierce the container where it is in contact with the frozen liquid contents. In some embodiments, the machine can recognize a particular frozen container type, distinguish it from other frozen containers using sensing criteria such as weight or temperature, mechanically adjust the container, So that it can be perforated at a specific location that is not in contact with the container. This may include inverting the container.

In some embodiments, the machine-based system melts and dilutes the frozen liquid content by flowing or pressurizing a certain amount of liquid that can be heated and pressurized through the vessel to produce a desired flavor, strength, volume, temperature and texture The frozen liquid inclusion can be completely melted and diluted. In conjunction with this embodiment, the machine-based system may include additional melting components, such as a container heater or heated puncture needle, etc., to facilitate production of the desired consumable liquid that the consumer does not wish to dilute. In some embodiments, the flowing liquid may melt the entire frozen liquid content to remove waste and rinse any residue or contaminant vessel as part of the melting or diluting process so that the container of homogeneous material is free of crushed material, Water, or filter, and is thus converted into a form that can be easily recycled. In some embodiments that focus on recycling, the manufacturer will introduce deposit requirements for each container to encourage return to point-of-sale for a deposit refund.

In some embodiments, the frozen food or beverage liquid is packaged to handle a diluent flowing without overflow. This particular arrangement may also include freezing the food or beverage liquid in a specific geometry, structure and ratio to provide the necessary flow path through the vessel to the outlet.

For the sake of clarity, exemplary implementations of different aspects of the system are described in terms of the type and design of the container, the nature of the frozen liquid inclusions, the means for melting and / or diluting the frozen liquid inclusions, and the desired flavor, potency, And delivery mechanisms applied to liquids produced to produce consumable foods or beverages on a timely and consistent basis in textures. These various options for the container type, form and characteristics of the frozen liquid containment, the mechanism for melting and / or diluting the frozen liquid containment and the means of delivery of the liquefied inclusion are the pleasurable final It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various combinations may be made to manufacture a product.

It is evident from the above description that embodiments of the present invention provide a filterless single chamber mixing vessel containing a frozen liquid inclusion which enables the production of various types of food and beverage products. The container is maintained in a sealed environment that optionally includes an oxygen barrier that preserves the final product or its enriched version in a frozen state until the user decides to produce the product. In addition, after piercing by one or more inlets or outlets, the vessel essentially remains a sealed mixing chamber that mixes the fluid with the frozen liquid content to produce a product while providing a controlled fluid outlet. When inserted into any of the dispenser embodiments described herein, or other known single serving drink maker / extraction system, the container may be a molten and / or diluted liquid (e.g., a liquid and / or a liquid) that is melted and combined with the frozen liquid content to produce the desired product For example , water) to act as a filterless single-chamber mixing vessel. This use of the container embodiment described herein allows the user to use his existing system as a dispenser or brewer by allowing the existing beverage maker / extraction system to act as a dispenser without the need to modify the system.

In certain embodiments, sufficient open space remains in the mixing chamber of the vessel to displace the frozen liquid inclusions into the open space of the chamber, thereby interfering with the liquid inlets and outlets (e.g., needles) and / Do not. In some embodiments, the frozen liquid content in the container does not account for half the total volume of the mixing chamber of the vessel. In other embodiments, the frozen liquid containment occupies more than half of the total volume of the mixing chamber.

As noted above, in certain embodiments, the frozen liquid containment is removed from the bottom of the vessel by action of a needle. The tapered sidewall of the vessel assists in releasing the frozen liquid contents from the bottom portion of the vessel. The tapered sidewall also provides a flow path around the frozen liquid inclusions after the inclusions have been displaced from what was previously a void of the container. Another factor affecting the amount of force required to remove frozen liquid inclusions is the size of the frozen liquid inclusion itself. The relatively smaller frozen liquid inclusion will contact the relatively smaller interior surface area of the chamber and will reduce the amount of force required to remove inclusions relative to the larger frozen liquid inclusions.

Adjusting the size of the frozen liquid inclusion has an additional advantage. For example, by maintaining a frozen liquid inclusion size below a selected range or a specific threshold, embodiments of the present invention ensure that the frozen liquid inclusions are completely melted before the full volume of diluent passes through the container. In this embodiment, the fluid passing through the vessel after the frozen liquid containment is melted cleans the interior of the vessel and the product outlet flow path of the residue. This increases the recyclability of the vessel and reduces the contamination of the product discharge flow path. Also, by keeping the size of the frozen liquid inclusion content within a certain threshold, the final product can ensure a temperature range suitable for a particular product.

On the other hand, by controlling the concentration of the frozen liquid inclusion (as measured, for example, by TDS and / or Brix), the size of the frozen liquid inclusions and the amount of dilution used are taken into account to ensure adequate final product strength . Relatively large frozen liquid inclusions require lower concentrations than relatively smaller frozen liquid inclusions for the same final product using the same dilution and molten liquid. The desired final product concentration also determines the concentration of the frozen liquid inclusion, e.g., 2 oz espresso with a final TDS of 6 will have a relatively more frozen liquid content than a 8 oz coffee cup with a final TDS of 1.25 You will need water. Also, in some embodiments, the degree of concentration of the frozen liquid containing material is such that the size of the frozen liquid containing material is sufficiently high to allow the outlet needle from the dispenser or known brewer to pass through the frozen liquid containing liquid, Allowing access to the open space above the frozen liquid inclusion without interference from the inclusion. Thus, certain embodiments of the vessels disclosed herein have a size and shape suitable for a known single serving extraction system having a known exit needle penetration depth. Because these dimensions are known, these embodiments freeze the liquid content having a concentration such that the inclusion has a content height that is less than the penetration depth of the needle and makes contact with substantially the entire end layer of the container . In this way, embodiments of the present invention are customized for a known single serving extraction system based on known dimensions and features of these systems.

As noted above, certain embodiments described herein include a container having a frozen liquid containment disposed within a container cavity in contact with a bottom (end layer) of the container. In these embodiments, the needles from a dispenser or an extractor drill the bottom of the container and lift the frozen liquid contents into an empty space inside the container. In order for the frozen liquid containment to be displaced by the needle, the frozen liquid containment should have sufficient hardness (at that temperature when placed in the dispenser / brewer) so that the needle does not sink into the frozen liquid containment. When the needles are recessed into the frozen liquid containment, the inclusions are not displaced in the bottom layer of the container and the exit flow path of the final product formed by mixing the frozen liquid containment with the incoming liquid is blocked. Similarly, if the frozen liquid containment is bent at the point of impact of the needle, the frozen liquid inclusion will not be released from the inner wall of the container chamber. This also clogs the outlet flow path. Thus, in certain embodiments of the present invention, the frozen liquid containment is sufficiently strong ( e.g., when the force is applied by a dispenser needle ( e. G., A hollow cylindrical needle having an outer diameter of about 2.5 mm and a diagonal length of about 4 mm) Thus, the frozen liquid contents escape from the inner surface of the container instead of being deflected out of the needle without escaping the needle buried in the containment. Exemplary dimensions of the given needle are not limited because the frozen liquid contents of these embodiments operate not only with non-cylindrical cross-sections, but also with other needle sizes, including those with larger or smaller holes.

Rather than experiencing the aforementioned undesirable effects, a hardness level of about 1 to about 6 at Mohs scale (about 0 ℉ to about 32)) provides sufficient hardness to remove from the inner surface of the container described herein ≪ / RTI > Accordingly, certain embodiments of the present invention have a hardness of about 1 to 5 at the morse scale at about 0 ℉ to about 32.. Other embodiments of the present invention have a hardness of about 1 to 4 at the morse scale at about 0 ℉ to about 32.. Another embodiment of the present invention has a hardness of about 1 to 3 at the morse scale at about 0 ℉ to about 32.. A further embodiment of the present invention has a hardness of about 1 to 2 at the morse scale at about 0 ℉ to about 32.. Certain embodiments of the present invention have a hardness of about 0.5 to 1.5 at Morse Scale at about 0 ℉ to about 32.. Another embodiment of the present invention has a hardness of about 1.5 to 2.5 at Morse Scale at about 0 ℉ to about 32.. Yet another embodiment of the present invention has a hardness of about 0.75 to 1.25 at Morse Scale of about 0 ℉ to about 32..

In certain embodiments, the frozen liquid inclusion will be a concentration that is insufficiently hard ( i.e. , a relatively high% TDS) such that the inclusion is displaced by the dispenser or brewer needle. Rather, the needles will be buried in the inclusions, or the inclusions will bend in the needles without escaping from the inner wall of the container chamber. 14A shows a side cross-sectional view of a container 1400 with an inner platform 1405. FIG. The platform 1405 is located between the end layer 1410 of the container 1400 and the liquid containment 1415 frozen. In FIG. 14A, platform 1405 is shown spaced from end layer 1410 and frozen liquid inclusions 1415. In some embodiments, the platform 1405 is placed on the end layer 1410 and contacts the end layer 1410 and the frozen liquid inclusions 1415 are placed on the platform 1405 and optionally on the end layer 1410 And contacts the part.

Figure 14B shows a side cross-sectional view of a container 1400 that supports a frozen liquid inclusion 1415 that is displaced and removed from the end layer 1410 by the inner platform 1405. [ As shown in the figure, dispenser / brewer needle 1420 punctures end layer 1410, but does not puncture platform 1405. Instead, the needle 1420 contacts the platform 1405 and removes the frozen liquid contents from the inner surface of the container 1400. [ The platform 1405 is optionally made of the same material as the container 1400 ( e.g. , aluminum) to maintain the recyclability of the container. The platform 1405 may be made more rigid than the end layer 1410 by a hardening process known in the art and / or the platform 1405 may be made of a material thicker than the end layer 1410. [

14A and 14B show a platform 1405 as a flat disk. However, other implementations include those shown in Figures 14C and 14D. 14C shows a platform 1430 with a scalloped circumference 1435 and FIG. 14D shows a fan-shaped platform 1440 with an overflow tube 1445. FIG. An overflow tube (1445) is, for example, as shown in the needle 1420 in FIG. 14b, the platform is created on the bottom of freezing the liquid contents of the space above the platform placed on the platform 1440 when raised by the dispenser needle Thereby forming a channel between the adjacent spaces. More details describing the overflow tube 1445 are as follows. Another embodiment includes a platform that is slightly concave or convex (compared to the end layer), frusto-conical, wavy, stamped, or other non-planar profile. This embodiment reduces the likelihood that the platform will adhere to the end layer and / or reduces the likelihood of acting as a barrier to liquid flow through the outlet formed in the end layer. The platforms 1430 and 1440 may be flat or have any other non-planar profile. Platforms 1430 and 1440 may have a smooth edge or a sector edge, as shown in the figures.

15A shows an embodiment of a container 1500 having a compounding draft angle. The vessel 1500 has an upper flange diameter 1505 of about 2.00 in, a lower transition diameter 1510 of about 1.44 in, and an end bed diameter 1515 of about 1.26 inches. The container 1500 has a height 1520 of about 1.72 inches. The vessel 1500 has a sidewall having a compounding draft angle with a transition point 1525 occurring at about 0.75 in from the end layer 1530. The draft angle 1535 above transition point 1525 is about 2.5 degrees and the draft angle below transition point 1540 is about 8 degrees. A larger draft angle at the lower portion of the sidewall facilitates the release of the frozen liquid content that rests on the end layer of the vessel. On the other hand, the lower draft angle of the upper portion aids in fixing the container in the dispenser and / or in the receptacle of a known single serving brewer.

FIG. 15B shows detail A of the container 1500 of FIG. 15A. This figure shows an indentation 1550 located below the highest portion of the rolling lip 1545 as well as a portion of the rolled lip 1545 of the flange of the container. Certain materials, such as, for example, aluminum, will maintain sharp edges when machined or stamped. Such an edge can pose a safety hazard to the user of the container having such an edge. The rolling lip 1545 pulls the flange edge beneath the flange body to protect the user from the sharp edges that remain. The indent 1550, on the other hand, allows the lid to be mounted to the flange body and the upper lid surface to remain below the top of the rolling lip 1545. The particular size described above for vessel 1500 can be varied while maintaining the compounding draft angle and is within the scope of the present invention.

16 shows a side cross-sectional view of a container 1600 with a platform 1605 having an overflow tube 1610. As shown in Fig. Platform 1605 is shown as a flat disk, but may be any shape described herein. The container has a flange diameter 1615 of about 2.00 inches and a height 1620 of about 1.72 inches. Container 1600 has a sidewall having a compounding draft angle with a transition point 1625 occurring at about 0.75 in from end layer 1630. The draft angle 1635 above transition point 1625 is about 2.5 degrees and the draft angle below transition point 1640 is about 15 degrees. The end layer of the vessel 1600 has a step 1645 that receives a platform 1605 with little or no space between the periphery and the step of the platform 1605. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter and step shape of the platform 1650 is about 1.16 inches. Adherence between the platform 1605 and the step 1645 reduces or prevents the fixation of the liquid content between the platform 1605 and the end layer 1675 before the content is frozen, 1600 to increase the amount of force required to remove the frozen liquid content from the inner surface of the overflow tube 1600 and to cause the frozen inclusions to flow into the bottom of the overflow tube 1610 which blocks the predetermined flow during the melting /

16, the platform 1605 and the overflow tube 1610 are shown cross-hatch to distinguish the platform and overflow tube from the end layer (bottom) 1675 of the vessel 1600. The overflow tube 1610 is positioned inside about 0.50 inches from the vessel centerline 1655. This point is a common entry point for the discharge needles of known single serving brewers. Thus, when the discharge needle passes through the end layer of the vessel, the needle is moved in a manner similar to that described for the embodiment of Figure 14B, rather than the needle entering the channel of the overflow tube 1610, The liquid containment (not shown) will be lifted. The top of the overflow tube 1660 is above the nominal fill line 1665 for a frozen liquid containment of about 0.50 in. From the top surface of the platform 1670. The particular size described above for vessel 1600 can be varied while maintaining the compounding draft angle and is within the scope of the present invention.

Figure 17 shows a container 1700 with a platform 1705 and an overflow tube 1710; A frozen liquid inclusion 1715 is placed on the upper surface of the platform 1705. This figure shows a dispenser or known single serving brewer needle 1720 that penetrates the end layer 1725 of the container 1700 and lifts the platform and frozen liquid contents. Overflow tube 1710 comprises a container (1700 a is blocked is close to contain the frozen liquid water flow path or inlet liquid flow is insufficient if (e. G., By the entrance to the needle that passes through the upper lid (not shown)) Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > flow. ≪ / RTI > When the liquid level reaches the top inlet 1730 of the overflow tube 1710, the excess liquid is formed in the interior of the container 1700, causing liquid to flow through the needle 1720 And flows into the space under the platform 1705 so as to be able to escape through the through-hole. In this process, the water introduced into the vessel through the needle through the lid must also be prevented from entering the overflow tube directly, thereby disturbing the purpose of melting and diluting the frozen inclusion. In certain embodiments, a needle geometry similar to that shown in FIG. 10C or 10D may be effective to cause the influent water to move away from the overflow tube 1610 and structurally to the side wall of the vessel.

Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein may optionally have a coating on the interior surface of the mixing chamber formed by the container to facilitate the release of the frozen liquid content from the interior surface. Considerations for the choice of coating include that the coating must be food safe and should not exhibit chemical leaching to an extent that is unacceptable with the liquid contents frozen during or during the product during the melting and / or dilution process. Similarly, when the inclusion is in liquid form, it should not absorb the desired flavor and aroma compound or oil from the frozen inclusion, especially during filling and dispensing operations. And other factors such as that the coating should have a desirable coefficient of static friction, porosity and surface roughness, in order to reduce the force required to release the frozen liquid content from the container against the uncoated surface. The coating should maintain the desired properties described above under the temperature range over which the container is exposed ( e.g. , from about -20 ℉ to about 212.). In some embodiments, the coefficient of static friction of the coating is 0.05 to 0.7. In other embodiments, the coefficient of static friction of the coating is 0.3 to 0.4. In other embodiments, the coefficient of static friction of the coating is from 0.1 to 0.2. In other embodiments, the coefficient of static friction of the coating is 0.05 to 0.1. In another embodiment, the coefficient of static friction of the coating is 0.08 to 0.3. In other embodiments, the coefficient of static friction of the coating is 0.07 to 0.4. In other embodiments, the coefficient of static friction of the coating is from 0.1 to 0.7. In some embodiments, the coating is a mixture of polypropylene, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene and / or a mixture of these materials and / or co- polymers such as polypropylene / Mixture).

In one embodiment of the present invention, a container having any one of the geometries disclosed herein allows a space of at least 5 mm between the frozen liquid containment and the end layer (bottom) of the container, Contains a frozen liquid content sized to maintain a space of at least 5 mm between the frozen liquid content and the cover layer (top) of the container when displaced from the end layer. In this embodiment, the frozen liquid inclusions are further sized to provide a final beverage product at a temperature of about 140 ℉ to 190 될 when inclusion (15)) is combined with 8 z of water at 195 다 . Also, in this embodiment, the frozen liquid inclusion has a concentration level to produce a coffee beverage having a final product strength between 1.15 TDS and 135 TDS when combined with 8 oz of water. Also, in this embodiment, the frozen liquid inclusions (at a temperature between 0 ℉ and 32)) are dispensers in contact with the inclusions and / or known single serving brewer needles ( e.g. , about 2.5 mm outer diameter and about A hollow needle having a diagonal of 4 mm length) is buried in the inclusions or removes only a portion of the inclusions from the inner surface of the container instead of moving away from the surface of the container. In another embodiment, the distance between the frozen liquid containment and the top and bottom of the vessel is at least 7 mm. In another embodiment, the frozen liquid containment has a concentration level to produce a coffee beverage having a final product strength of about 1.25 TDS when combined with 8 oz of water.

In addition to the geometry of the container shown in Figure 16, an embodiment of the present invention has a profile similar to that of the container 1800 shown in Figure 18 and has a height in the range of 1.65 inches to 1.80 inches, an upper inner diameter in the range of 1.65 inches to 2.00 inches (Upper ID), a draft angle in the range of 4 degrees to 6 degrees, and a lower inner diameter (lower ID) in the range of 1.30 inches to 1.75 inches (while maintaining the draft angle within the above range). In certain embodiments, the height is in the range of 1.70 inches to 1.75 inches, the top ID is in the range of 1.70 inches to 1.95 inches, the draft angle is in the range of 4 to 6 degrees, 1.70 in. In another embodiment, the height is in the range of 1.65 inches to 1.80 inches, the top ID is in the range of 1.75 inches to 1.90 inches, the draft angle is in the range of 4 to 6 degrees, 1.65 in. In another embodiment, the height is in the range of 1.65 inches to 1.80 inches, the top ID is in the range of 1.80 inches to 1.90 inches, the draft angle is in the range of 4 degrees to 6 degrees, and the lower ID (while maintaining the draft angle within the above range) 1.45 in to 1.60 in. In one implementation, the height is about 1.72 inches, the top ID is about 1.80 in, the draft angle is about 5 degrees, and the bottom ID is about 1.45 inches. Other ranges of these parameters are also within the scope of the present invention.

The following non-limiting embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only. Other container sizes and other frozen liquid inclusions are also within the scope of the present invention.

Example 1 - Coffee beverage

In one embodiment of the invention, the filterless single-chamber mixing vessel contains a frozen liquid inclusion. The vessel has a profile similar to that shown in Figure 18 and has a height of about 1.72 inches, an upper ID of about 1.80 inches, a draft angle of about 5 degrees and a lower ID of about 1.45 inches. The container is sealed at the top with a perforated layer and the end layer may be perforated ( e.g. , by a dispenser / brewer needle such as the needle described above, non-limitingly). The frozen liquid inclusion is a concentrated coffee extract that is in contact with a portion of the substantially entire end layer and sidewalls.

To prepare a final coffee beverage product having a TDS ranging from 1.15% to about 1.35% TDS (with an optional target of 1.25% TDS), the frozen liquid content is melted at 15 ° F and diluted to 8 oz of water at 195 ° F . Table 1 below shows the effect of various other embodiments of the frozen liquid containment of this embodiment, as well as the amount of frozen liquid containment and various parameters that vary the degree of concentration of the containment.

Content
volume
(in ³ ) Content
weight
(oz) End layer
top
Container height
(in) Content
top
empty place
(in) Container volume
undergarment
empty place
(%) Content
TDS
(%) Content
Brix
(° Bx) final
product
Temperature
(F) 0.3 0.18 0.13 1.57 91 57 67 188 0.5 0.30 0.25 1.45 85 35 41 183 0.7 0.42 0.37 1.33 79 25 29 178 0.9 0.54 0.49 1.21 73 20 24 175 1.5 0.90 0.81 0.89 56 12 14 162 2.0 1.20 1.07 0.63 41 10 12 153 2.9 1.74 1.49 0.21 14 7 8 137

As shown in Table 1, to maintain the coffee beverage temperature above 140 ° F ( eg , allowing the addition of milk or cream while keeping the beverage temperature at 120 ° F or above), the frozen liquid content weight is about 60% TDS to about 0.15 to about 1.2 oz at a concentration of about 8% TDS (where smaller inclusions require higher concentrations). When included in the container, the length of the void above the frozen liquid inclusions and above the top layer ( i . E., The headspace) is from about 0.6 to about 1.6 inches, which produces about 41% to about 91% voids.

The inventors have found that maintaining a frozen liquid inclusion height of about 0.5 in or less from the end layer of the container increases the ease of release of the inclusion from the end layer. Thus, the inclusion may be further limited to a height of from about 0.5 to about 0.1 in., And thus has a corresponding degree of concentration of about 60% to about 20% TDS. This increases headspace and void volume as compared to the previous embodiment, which is expected to improve melting and mixing under conditions where the water ratio of the mixing chamber increases relative to the frozen liquid containing.

It may be desirable to limit the concentration range of frozen liquid inclusion to a TDS of 35% or less. For example, to produce a relatively high concentration of frozen liquid inclusion consumes more energy than a relatively low concentration, a second step, such as reverse osmosis removal of water during the extraction process, is required to conserve energy . In this case, the frozen liquid inclusion has a weight of from about 0.30 to about 0.5 oz, leaving a head space of about 1.2 to about 1.45 in, with an empty volume of about 73% to about 85%.

Example 2 - Espresso drink

In another embodiment of the present invention, the filterless single chamber mixing vessel contains a frozen liquid inclusion. The vessel has the same profile and dimensions as described in Example 1. < RTI ID = 0.0 > In this embodiment, the frozen liquid containment is also a concentrated coffee extract that is in contact with a portion of the substantially entire end layer and side wall.

To prepare the final espresso beverage product with a TDS of about 9.15% to about 9.35% TDS (having an optional target of about 9.25% TDS), the frozen liquid content was dissolved at 15 ° F and diluted with sufficient water at 195 ° F to yield 4 The dispensed volume of oz (sometimes described as double espresso) is obtained. Table 2 below illustrates some other embodiments of the frozen liquid containment of this embodiment and the effect on the amount of frozen liquid containment and various parameters that change the containment concentration.

Content
volume
(in ³ ) Content
weight
(oz) End layer
top
Container height
(in) Content
top
empty place
(in) Container volume
undergarment
empty place
(%) Content
TDS
(%) Content
Brix
(° Bx) final
product
Temperature
(F) 1.0 0.64 0.54 1.16 70 58 68 145 1.1 0.70 0.60 1.10 67 53 62 140 1.2 0.76 0.65 1.05 64 48 56 134 1.3 0.83 0.71 0.99 61 45 53 128

Similar results can be obtained using the different container designs disclosed herein as described above in conjunction with the various implementations of the frozen liquid containment described in Tables 1 and 2. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the use of certain embodiments of the frozen liquid containment in containers having a profile as shown in Fig.

As discussed throughout the specification, embodiments of the present invention provide many advantages. For example, because the vessel is a single chamber mixing vessel, the vessel does not have filter material, waste coffee grounds, used tea leaves, or other materials that prevent the vessel from being easily recycled into a single stream. In addition, by providing the frozen liquid inclusions produced by the extraction process, by-products such as coffee grounds can be maintained in a central facility (such as biomass energy and / or sustainable soil nutrients) that can be more easily recycled or re- do. In addition, as described in more detail above, frozen liquid inclusions can be used to support a greater variety of end products.

As described herein, aspects of the techniques and systems related to manufacturing foods or beverages in an automated manner at a desired temperature and a desired volume can be implemented as a computer program product for use with a computer system or a computerized electronic device . Such implementations include a series of computer instructions fixed on a tangible / non-volatile medium such as a computer readable medium (e.g., diskette, CD-ROM, ROM, flash memory or other memory or fixed disk) May be capable of being transmitted to a computer system or device via a modem or other interface device, such as a communications adapter, including logic or connected to a network via a medium.

The media may be media embodied in tangible media (e.g., optical or analog communication lines) or wireless technology (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular, microwave, infrared or other transmission technology). A series of computer instructions embody at least a portion of the functionality described herein in connection with the system. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such computer instructions may be written in any number of programming languages for use with many computer architectures or operating systems.

Such instructions may be stored in any type of memory device, such as a semiconductor, magnetic, optical or other memory device, and transmitted using any communication technology, such as optical, infrared, microwave or other transmission technology.

Such computer program products may be distributed on removable media with accompanying printed matter or electronic documents (e.g., shrink wrapped software) or may be pre-loaded with a computer system (e.g., system ROM or fixed disk) Web) through a server or an electronic bulletin board. Of course, some implementations of the invention may be implemented in combination with software (e.g., a computer program product) and hardware. Yet another embodiment of the present invention is implemented entirely in hardware or entirely in software (e.g., a computer program product).

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the present invention, the present invention may be embodied in other forms than those specifically described above. Accordingly, the specific embodiments described above are illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments described herein.

Claims (100)

As a receptacle,
A side wall including a tapered portion whose dimension increases from a first end of the container to a second end of the container;
An end layer disposed at a first end of the container, wherein the end layer is defined by a sheet without an opening, the sidewall and the end layer defining a cavity of the container, An open end;
A solid frozen liquid inclusion disposed within the cavity of the vessel; And
And a perforateable cap formed on an opening of the container sealing the container,
At least a portion of said sidewall and at least a portion of said perforable cap defining an empty space in a container free of solid frozen liquid inclusions;
The container being configured to be inserted into the dispensing device;
The end layer of the container being pierced by a needle disposed in the dispensing device;
Wherein the solid frozen liquid inclusion has a first position and a second position in the cavity and wherein in the first position the solid frozen liquid inclusion substantially conforms to the entire end layer of the container, In the second position, the solid frozen liquid containment is displaced from the end layer of the vessel into the void space, and in the second position, at least a portion of the void space is filled with the solid frozen liquid inclusion It is the container that is to be held. The container of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a gas impermeable material configured to preserve freshness and aroma of the solid frozen liquid containment. The container of claim 1, wherein each of said container and said stopper comprises a recyclable material such that said container and said stopper are recyclable. The container of claim 1, wherein the solid frozen liquid inclusion comprises at least one of the following:
Frozen coffee extract;
Frozen tea extract;
Frozen lemonade concentrate;
Frozen vegetable concentrate;
Frozen broth;
Frozen liquid dairy products;
Frozen alcohol-based products;
Frozen concentrated soup;
Freezing syrup;
Frozen fruit concentrates;
Vitamin water; And
Functional food mixture. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vessel is pierced before the vessel is inserted into the apparatus; Be perforated while in the device; Or both. The container of claim 1, wherein the container is filterless. The container of claim 1, wherein the solid frozen liquid containment and container is provided in a controlled portion arrangement. 8. The container of claim 7, wherein the controlled subdivision comprises a single-serving sized form. 8. The container of claim 7, wherein the controlled subdivision includes a form of batch-serving size for generating multiple-servings from single or multiple injections of liquid. 2. The container of claim 1, wherein the container is configured to receive a heated liquid through the porous container to facilitate liquefaction and dilution of the solid frozen liquid content. 2. The container of claim 1, wherein the container is configured to receive heat to facilitate melting of the solid frozen liquid content in the container. 2. The container of claim 1, wherein the end layer comprises a bistable dome or a single deformable dome, wherein the dome is partially spherical. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the dome has a first stability orientation that extends away from the cavity when the solid frozen liquid inclusion is in the first position within the cavity, Has a second stability orientation that extends into the cavity when in a second position within the cavity. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein when in the first position, the solid frozen liquid containment substantially conforms to the entire tapered portion of the sidewall beneath the void space and end layer of the vessel;
The solid frozen liquid containment is sized to be displaced into the void space by the needle to create a clearance surrounding the solid frozen liquid inclusion when in the second position, And creating a flow path from the end to the first end of the cavity around the solid frozen liquid inclusions. The container of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a tapered portion of the sidewall, a stopper formed on the opening of the container, and an end layer of the container form a gas impermeable container. 16. The container of claim 15, wherein the portion of the sidewall at the second end of the container and the stopper are coupled through a hot seal. 16. The container of claim 15 wherein a portion of the sidewall at the second end of the container and the stopper are coupled through crimping. 16. The container of claim 15, wherein a portion of the sidewall at the second end of the container and the stopper are coupled through gluing. 16. The container of claim 15, wherein the portion of the sidewall at the second end of the vessel and the plug are coupled through sonic welding. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising coating a tapered portion of the sidewall and at least a portion of the end layer in the interior of the cavity, wherein the coating comprises a solid freeze- Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > attachment of water. The container of claim 1, wherein the solid frozen liquid inclusion comprises at least one of a frozen liquid extract and a frozen liquid concentrate. 22. The container of claim 21, wherein the solid frozen liquid inclusion comprises nutrients. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the void space is sufficiently sized such that when the container is disposed in the dispensing device, the stopper can be pierced by a second needle disposed within the dispensing device, Wherein the contents can be displaced into the void space to a second position by a needle passing through the end layer. 2. The container of claim 1, wherein the opening defined by the second end is a flanged opening. The container of claim 1, wherein the container comprises aluminum. 2. The container of claim 1, wherein the side wall and the end layer are continuous layers. The container of claim 1 wherein said void space comprises at least one of an inert gas and a reducing reactive gas instead of atmospheric air. 28. The container of claim 27, wherein the container is filterless. 28. The container of claim 27, wherein the sidewall, the end layer, and the puncturable cap define a single chamber. 28. The container of claim 27, wherein the container comprises aluminum. A method of making a molten liquid product from a container containing a frozen liquid inclusion,
Providing a container containing a frozen liquid inclusion, wherein the container has an end layer disposed at an end of the container, the frozen liquid inclusion contacting substantially the entire end layer of the container Wherein the frozen liquid containment and vessel define a void region in the vessel that does not have a frozen liquid inclusion;
Disposing a container containing the frozen liquid content in a chamber of a dispenser;
Piercing the end layer of the container with a first needle;
Removing the frozen liquid content from the end layer and displacing the frozen liquid content into the void region;
The dispenser melting the frozen liquid content in the container to produce a molten liquid product; And
Capturing the molten liquid product from the vessel
≪ / RTI > 32. The method of claim 31, further comprising puncturing the container in at least one position that is different than puncturing the end layer. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the vessel is filterless. 32. The container of claim 31, wherein the container further comprises a side wall and a perforable cap, wherein the side wall extends from the end layer at a first end of the container to a second end of the container, The layer defining a cavity of the container, the second end of the container defining an opening, wherein the perforable cap is formed on the opening, the side wall, the end layer and the perforable cap defining a single chamber How to do it. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the dispenser melting the frozen liquid inclusions comprises:
Causing the dispenser to puncture the container with a second needle at a second location different than the puncture of the end layer;
The dispenser injecting a liquid above the freezing temperature of the frozen liquid inclusion through the channel of the second needle into the container to melt and dilute the frozen inclusion in the container. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the dispenser melting the frozen liquid inclusion comprises: (a) applying heat to the exterior surface of the container; and (b) adding a diluent to the interior space of the container Wherein the dispenser comprises initiating a process by which the dispenser melts the frozen liquid content. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the dispenser supplying heat to the vessel comprises placing the vessel in contact with the heater. 37. The container of claim 36, wherein the dispenser supplying heat to the container comprises a dispenser for irradiating the container with a heat source. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the dispenser supplying heat to the vessel comprises irradiating the frozen liquid content with a heat source. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the dispenser supplying heat to the vessel comprises a dispenser impinging on at least one of the heated gas and vapor against an outer surface of the vessel. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein providing the container includes having the container identifying the characteristic of the frozen liquid containment of the container. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the information identifying a characteristic of the frozen liquid inclusion comprises an optical code on an outer surface of the container. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the information identifying a characteristic of the frozen liquid inclusion comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag included with the container. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the information identifying a characteristic of the frozen liquid containment comprises the container having a particular shape. 42. The method of claim 41,
Providing a desired temperature set point for the molten liquid product;
Providing a desired dispensed volume for the molten liquid product; And
Wherein the dispenser selectively applies heat to the outer surface of the vessel and selectively adds the diluent to the interior of the vessel based on the identified characteristic, the desired temperature set point and the desired dispensed volume for the molten liquid product Steps to make
≪ / RTI > 46. The method of claim 45, wherein the characteristic of the frozen liquid inclusion comprises a dilution threshold. 46. The method of claim 45, wherein the characteristic of the frozen liquid inclusion comprises a temperature threshold. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the step of causing the dispenser to melt the frozen liquid content comprises initiating a process in which the dispenser applies motion to the container to accelerate the rate of melting of the frozen liquid content How it is. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the vessel is rotary. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the vessel is reciprocating or oscillating. A method of making a molten liquid product from a container containing a frozen liquid inclusion,
Comprising the steps of: receiving a container containing a liquid containing material frozen in a chamber of a dispenser, wherein the container has an end layer disposed at an end of the container, Layer and the container defines a void region in the container that does not have the frozen liquid content;
Causing the dispenser to puncture the end layer of the vessel with a first needle;
Removing the frozen liquid content from the end layer and displacing the frozen liquid content into the void region;
The dispenser melting the frozen liquid content in the container to produce a molten liquid product; And
Wherein the dispenser dispenses the molten liquid product from the vessel
≪ / RTI > 52. The method of claim 51, wherein removing the frozen liquid inclusion from the end layer and displacing the frozen liquid inclusion into the void region comprises: causing the dispenser to puncture the end layer of the vessel with a first needle ≪ / RTI > 52. The method of claim 51, wherein dispensing the molten liquid product comprises flowing the molten liquid product through a channel of the first needle. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein dispensing the molten liquid product comprises causing the dispenser to retract the first needle to cause the molten liquid product to flow through the perforations of the end layer. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein the frozen liquid content is completely melted prior to dispensing the molten liquid product. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein melting the frozen liquid inclusion comprises heating the first needle after perforating the end layer. 52. The method of claim 51, further comprising punting the container in at least one location where the dispenser differs from puncturing the end layer. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein the vessel is filterless. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein melting the frozen liquid inclusions comprises:
Piercing the container with a second needle at a second location where the dispenser differs from the perforation of the end layer;
Wherein the dispenser comprises heating the second needle. 60. The method of claim 59, wherein puncturing the end layer of the vessel with a first needle occurs after heating the second needle. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein melting the frozen liquid inclusions comprises:
Piercing the container with a second needle at a second location where the dispenser differs from the perforation of the end layer;
The dispenser injecting a liquid above the freezing temperature of the frozen liquid inclusion through the channel of the second needle into the container to melt and dilute the frozen inclusion in the container. 62. The method of claim 61, wherein distributing the molten liquid product comprises flowing the molten liquid product through a channel of the first needle. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein melting the frozen liquid content by the dispenser comprises irradiating the frozen liquid content with electrical frequency energy. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein the dispenser melting the frozen liquid inclusion comprises: (a) applying heat to an exterior surface of the container; and (b) adding a diluent to the interior space of the container ≪ / RTI > wherein the dispenser comprises melting the frozen liquid content through at least one of the dispenser and the dispenser. 65. The method of claim 64 wherein supplying heat to the vessel by the dispenser comprises placing the vessel in contact with the heater. 65. The method of claim 64, wherein the dispenser supplying heat to the vessel comprises irradiating the vessel with a heat source. 65. The method of claim 64, wherein the dispenser supplying heat to the vessel comprises the dispenser impacting at least one of the heated gas and vapor against the outer surface of the vessel. 65. The method of claim 64, further comprising the step of the dispenser identifying characteristics of the frozen liquid containment of the container. 69. The method of claim 68, wherein said dispenser identifying a characteristic of a frozen liquid containment of said container comprises reading said optical code on an outer surface of said container. 69. The method of claim 68, wherein the step of the dispenser identifying features of the frozen liquid containment of the container comprises reading the radio frequency identification (RFID) tag included in the container. 69. The method of claim 68, wherein the step of the dispenser identifying features of the frozen liquid containment of the container comprises the dispenser reading the shape of the container. 69. The method of claim 68,
The dispenser receiving a desired temperature set point for the molten liquid product;
The dispenser receiving a desired dispensed volume for the molten liquid product; And
Wherein the dispenser selectively applies heat to the exterior surface of the container and selectively adds the diluent to the interior of the container based on the identified characteristics, the preferred temperature set point, and the desired dispensed volume for the molten liquid product Step
≪ / RTI > 73. The method of claim 72, wherein the characteristic of the frozen liquid inclusion comprises a dilution threshold. 77. The method of claim 73, wherein the step of selectively dispensing a diluent into the interior of the vessel is further based on the dilution threshold. 73. The method of claim 72, wherein the characteristic of the frozen liquid inclusion comprises a temperature threshold. 77. The method of claim 75, wherein the step of selectively applying heat to the outer surface of the vessel by the dispenser is further based on the temperature threshold. 77. The method of claim 75, wherein the step of selectively dispensing diluent in the interior of the vessel is further based on the temperature threshold. 77. The method of claim 75, further comprising adjusting the temperature of the diluent added to the interior of the vessel based on at least one of the desired temperature set point, the preferred dispensing volume, and the temperature threshold. 52. The method of claim 51, wherein melting the frozen liquid inclusion comprises applying motion to the vessel to accelerate the rate of melting of the frozen liquid inclusions. 80. The method of claim 79, wherein the vessel is rotary. 80. The method of claim 79, wherein the vessel is reciprocating or oscillatory. As a container,
A sidewall including a tapered portion increasing in dimension from a first end of the vessel to a second end of the vessel;
An end layer disposed at a first end of the container, wherein the end layer is defined by a sheet without an opening, the sidewall and the end layer defining a cavity of the container, An open end;
A solid frozen liquid inclusion disposed within the cavity of the vessel; And
A perforated cap formed on said opening of said container sealing said container;
Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 >
At least a portion of said sidewall and at least a portion of said pierceable cap defining an empty space in said vessel free of solid frozen liquid inclusions;
The container being configured to be inserted into the dispensing device;
The end layer of the vessel being pierced by a needle disposed in the dispensing device;
Wherein the solid frozen liquid containment has a first position and a second position in the cavity and wherein in the first position the solid frozen liquid containment is adjacent to the end layer of the container, , The solid frozen liquid inclusion is displaced from the end layer of the vessel into the void space and in the second position at least a portion of the void space remains free of the solid frozen liquid inclusions Vessel. 83. The method of claim 82, wherein when the solid frozen liquid containment is in the first position, the void space defined by the solid frozen liquid containment, the sidewall portion, and the portion of the perforable cap, At least about half of the total volume defined by the end layer and the perforate cap. 83. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the solid frozen liquid inclusions are sufficiently rigid at a temperature of about 0 ℉ to about 32 ℉ so that a force exerted by the needles of the dispensing apparatus displaces the solid frozen liquid inclusions from the first position 2 < / RTI > position. 83. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the container further comprises a platform disposed between the solid frozen liquid containment and the end layer, the platform comprising a needle of the dispensing device when the end layer is punctured by the needle, The container being configured to contact the container. 93. The container of claim 85, wherein the end layer comprises a depression complementary to the shape of the platform, and wherein the platform is disposed within the indent. 86. The container of claim 85, wherein the platform is a substantially flat disc. 86. The container of claim 85, wherein the platform is at least one of a recess or a convex with respect to the end layer. 86. The container of claim 85, wherein the platform is corrugated. 86. The system of claim 85, wherein the platform comprises an overflow tube, the overflow tube allowing flow to flow from the first side of the platform through the channel to the second side of the platform Wherein the container has at least one channel. 83. The container of claim 82, wherein the tapered portion of the sidewall comprises a continuous taper. 83. The method of claim 82, wherein the tapered portion of the sidewall includes a first tapered portion and a second tapered portion, wherein the first tapered portion is tapered to a greater extent than the second tapered portion, wherein the second tapered portion is located distal to the end layer. 93. The container of claim 92 wherein the height of the solid frozen liquid inclusions is less than the transition point between the first tapered portion and the second tapered portion. 92. The method of claim 92, wherein the solid frozen liquid inclusions are sufficiently rigid at a temperature of from about 0 ℉ to about 32 ℉ so that a force exerted by the needles of the dispensing apparatus displaces the solid frozen liquid inclusions from the first position 2 position. 93. The dispenser of claim 92, wherein the container further comprises a platform disposed between the solid frozen liquid containment and the end layer, the platform comprising a needle of the dispenser when the end layer is punctured by the needle, The container being configured to contact the container. 95. The container of claim 95, wherein the end layer comprises an indentation complementary to the shape of the platform, the platform being disposed within the indent. 96. The container of claim 96, wherein the platform is a substantially flat disc. 96. The container of claim 96, wherein the platform is at least one of a recess or a convex with respect to the end layer. 96. The container of claim 96, wherein the platform is a waveform. 96. The apparatus of claim 96, wherein the platform comprises an overflow tube, the overflow tube comprising at least one channel for allowing flow to flow from the first side of the platform through the channel to the second side of the platform, Lt; / RTI >

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